Mucoid Degeneration of Anterior and Posterior Cruciate Ligaments: A Rare Coexistence Detected Owing to Ultrasound

ABACIOĞLU H. B., ÇOLAK A. F., YALÇINKAYA B., Yalçınkaya H., ÇETİN A.

Journal of Clinical Ultrasound, vol.54, no.3, pp.783-786, 2026 (SCI-Expanded, Scopus) identifier identifier

  • Publication Type: Article / Letter
  • Volume: 54 Issue: 3
  • Publication Date: 2026
  • Doi Number: 10.1002/jcu.70107
  • Journal Name: Journal of Clinical Ultrasound
  • Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus, CINAHL
  • Page Numbers: pp.783-786
  • Keywords: intervention, knee, magnetic resonance imaging, pain, ultrasonography
  • Hacettepe University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

Herein, we present the case of a 56-year-old female with mechanical-type right knee pain and extension difficulty, ultimately diagnosed with mucoid degeneration (MD) of both the anterior and posterior cruciate ligaments—a rare coexistence. Ultrasound (US) revealed hypoechoic thickening of the cruciate ligaments and medial meniscal extrusion, prompting further evaluation. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) confirmed MD of both cruciate ligaments and a grade III posterior root tear of the medial meniscus. While MRI remains the gold standard for diagnosing MD, this case highlights the valuable role of US in early suspicion, dynamic assessment, and comparative evaluation of cruciate ligament pathology, even in deep-seated structures. A conservative treatment plan was initiated, and the patient remains under uneventful follow-up.