Prepatellar Bursitis

Prepatellar bursitis is a condition that affects the small fluid-filled sac called the bursa located in front of the kneecap. This bursa helps reduce friction between the skin and the knee joint during movement. When it becomes inflamed, it causes pain, swelling, and sometimes redness over the front of the knee. The condition often results from repeated pressure or trauma to the knee, such as frequent kneeling. It mainly affects the musculoskeletal system and can limit knee movement and cause discomfort during activities. In some cases, infection can develop, leading to more severe symptoms.

Prepatellar bursitis is the inflammation of the prepatellar bursa, a synovial fluid-filled sac located anterior to the patella. It commonly arises due to repetitive microtrauma or direct blunt trauma, often seen in occupations requiring frequent kneeling. The inflammation leads to bursal swelling, pain, and restricted knee motion. Infectious causes, typically by Staphylococcus aureus, can result in septic bursitis, which requires prompt diagnosis and treatment. Clinically, it is significant because it can mimic other causes of anterior knee pain and may lead to complications such as abscess formation or chronic bursitis if untreated. Diagnosis is primarily clinical but may be supported by imaging and aspiration.