American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) Certification Practice Exam

Where is tenderness typically noted in a patient with pes anserine bursitis?

1. On the patella

2. On the lateral joint line

3. On the anteromedial aspect of the knee

4. On the posterior knee

The correct answer is: On the anteromedial aspect of the knee

In a case of pes anserine bursitis, tenderness is typically appreciated on the anteromedial aspect of the knee. This condition arises from inflammation of the bursa located between the tibia and the tendons that insert at the site, specifically the tendons of the sartorius, gracilis, and semitendinosus muscles. Patients often report localized pain in this area, especially during activities that involve knee flexion or movements that strain the medial aspects of the leg. The anatomy of the pes anserine, or "goose's foot," is essential to understanding where tenderness occurs. This region is located just below the medial knee joint, making it a common site for inflammation and pain when issues arise with the bursa. Direct palpation in this area will elicit discomfort in individuals with pes anserine bursitis, helping clinicians differentiate it from other potential knee pathologies.