Lower leg mass in pulmonary embolism: a case of popliteal vein aneurysm

Popliteal vein aneurysms (PVAs) are rare entities, with less than 300 hundred cases reported in the global literature. Despite their rarity, they have immense consequences, having the potential to lead to life-threatening conditions such as pulmonary embolisms and even death. Hence, it is vital for clinicians to be aware of this condition. In this paper, we report a case of PVA and its imaging features seen on the varying imaging modalities. Diagnosis often may not be straightforward as it can mimic other non-vascular or soft tissue masses, hence understanding and appreciating its specific imaging appearances is essential. Generally, PVAs are treated surgically with good outcomes with no reported mortality or recurrence of pulmonary embolism.