Pure peroneal intraneural ganglion cyst ascending along the sciatic nerve

Abstract

Peroneal nerve entrapment is most commonly seen in the popliteal fossa. It is rarely caused by a ganglion. Intraneural ganglia, although uncommon and seldom cause serious complications, are well recognized and most commonly affect the common peroneal (lateral popliteal) nerve. Ganglionic cysts developing in the sheath of a peripheral nerve or joint capsule may cause compression neuropathy. The differential diagnosis should involve L5 root lesions, posttraumatic intraneural hemorrhage, nerve compression near the tendinous arch located at the fibular insertion of the peroneal longus muscle and nerve-sheath tumors. We present a unique case of a pure intraneural ganglion of the common peroneal nerve ascending along the sciatic nerve. This case underscores the importance of consideration of an intraneural ganglion cyst with sciatic nerve involvement.