What could cause bilateral knee pain?

Question

Hi doctor,

I have had bilateral knee pain. I had an MRI that showed changes and articular full-thickness cartilage loss. I have had increased pain so had another MRI done one week ago.

The report states:

Mild OA changes with spiky tibial tubercles and small osteophytic lipping formations were seen.

Small patellar subchondral bone marrow edematous changes.

Evidence of two small femoral subchondral cystic changes.

Mild joint effusion.

I had a doctor look at the MRI images and he said it was lateral patellar subluxation and I needed hamstring and quad drills for stretching he did not mention the OA or the other changes above mentioned.

Do cystic changes suggest bone cysts?

Can you please reply with a clear straightforward diagnosis that I can understand?

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

In terms of straightforward words, this report (attachment removed for patient identity protection) says stage 2 or 3 osteoarthritis. Your bone is getting damaged. A subchondral cyst is formed when bone tries to cover up the damages by rebuilding the bone in a fast manner but fails and forms a hollow bone (cyst). You will need surgery in stage 4. Follow up with MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) images so that I can explain better.

Thank you.