Case report 706: Silicone-induced reactive synovitis

In a patient with a disrupted silicone prosthesis, the presence of a swollen articulation should suggest the presence of silicone-induced reactive synovitis. Diagnosis of the entity rests on the identification of particulate matter by polarized microscopy and/or scanning electron microscopy--studies that will not be performed routinely unless the diagnosis is suggested preoperatively. The case presented is that of a 68-year-old woman in whom a silicone elastomer trapeziometacarpal prosthesis had been implanted 5 years previously. Painful swelling had ensued, and biopsy confirmed the diagnosis.