Cystic Adventitial Disease of the Popliteal Artery : A Rare Case with Review of Literature

Cystic adventitial disease (CAD) is a rare non-atheromatous affection of the popliteal artery, often misdiagnosed, leading to increasing morbidity and eventual disability. More commonly unilateral, this condition tends to affect males in their fourth and fifth decades. Diagnosis is usually suggested with ultrasonography (USG) and is further confirmed with digital subtraction angiography (DSA). Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) angiography is another non-invasive method for diagnosis of CAD. Where DSA gives information about the luminal contour and severity of narrowing, MRI helps in evaluation of the extramural component and surrounding soft tissue. Management is in the form of resection of the involved popliteal artery segment.