What is mucoid degeneration of the medial meniscus does this suggest a tear? i am 48 and have extreme pain in the knee with catching and pop

Not the same: as a tear but more likely to get one in a twisting injury!] It could explain the "catching/pop" but unlikely t be the direct source of your knee pain...CO-EXISTING degenerative disease (arthritis) is more likely! Hope this helps! Dr Z

Possibly : Your symptoms sound like a tear. The meniscus usually has a very solid black signal throughout when it is healthy. When you can see an abnormal signal and it goes to the surface, it is usually considered a tear. When there is signal change within the meniscus but it does not connect with the surface, it is often described as degeneration. You probably have a subtle tear, may need a scope.