Orthopaedic Surgeon Questions Orthopaedic Surgeon

Swollen knee?

My right knee has swelled to about twice the size of the left knee. What are the usual causes?

Male | 58 years old

4 Answers

If you had trauma to the knee it could be a hematoma collection of blood. Most likely it is fluid from inflammation. You also could have an infected knee, in which case it would be pus. You should see your primary care provider.
Obviously something wrong with the swollen knee. Should have fluid removed and cultures done to rule out infection.
It could be one of several reasons: arthritis(degenerative or rheumatoid) trauma, internal derangement, etc. Your MD will be able to figure it out with exam, x-rays, MRI. etc.
Good morning,

There are several different causes for knee swelling ranging for regular wear and tear arthritis to inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid or psoriatic arthritis. Meniscus injuries and trauma can also be associated with knee swelling as can infections such as Lymes disease. In addition conditions such as gout and pseudo gout are also common causes for knee swelling. Unfortunately based on the information provided it is difficult to narrow it down further but considering the severity of symptoms I would strongly recommend reaching out to your PCP as a first step to getting a clearer diagnosis and if appropriate and possible then evaluation by Rheumatology or Orthopedics may also be needed.

I hope the above information is useful to you.

Mishal Abdullah.