Leg ulcers following subcutaneous injection of a liquid silicone preparation.
We present an unusual case of leg ulcers occurring 23 years after the patient had received large-volume subcutaneous injections of a liquid silicone preparation into her legs for cosmetic reasons. Light microscopy of a biopsy specimen from the edge of the ulcer showed optically clear vacuoles in the dermis, together with a mixed cellular infiltrate. Scanning electron microscopic studies revealed amorphous spherules within the vacuoles, and energy-dispersive spectroscopy established the presence of silicon in these spherules. Nearby tissue not containing spherules did not show a silicon peak. This case adds to the growing documentation of morbidity associated with injections of silicone of uncertain purity.
Rae
V
V
Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Surgery, University of Miami Fla School of Medicine.
Pardo
R J
RJ
Blackwelder
P L
PL
Falanga
V
V
D001706:Biopsy; D004129:Dimethylpolysiloxanes / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects*; D004954:Esthetics; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007279:Injections, Subcutaneous; D007871:Leg Ulcer / Q000139:chemically induced* / Q000473:pathology / Q000628:therapy; D008855:Microscopy, Electron, Scanning; D008875:Middle Aged; D009779:Occlusive Dressings; D012828:Silicones / Q000009:adverse effects*; D012867:Skin / Q000648:ultrastructure
D004129:Dimethylpolysiloxanes; D012828:Silicones