Acute pneumonitis and diffuse alveolar hemorrhage secondary to silicone embolism: A case report

Polydimethylsiloxane, commonly referred as silicone, is an inert liquid compound used in esthetic procedures due to its durability and thermal stability, yet the application of non-pure silicone generates risks. One of the complications is systemic embolism syndrome which is presents with fever, hypoxemia, and progression to respiratory failure, diffuse alveolar damage and alveolar hemorrhage, as well as neurological alterations in one-third of the cases. Management is strictly supportive. We present the case of acute pneumonitis with alveolar hemorrhage after silicone injection.

25-year-old transsexual man, who consulted 48 hours after liquid silicone injection in the buttocks and trochanteric area, with progressive dyspnea and chest tightness, with rapid progression to respiratory failure.

Clinical diagnosis of silicone embolism was made. Chest x-ray and CT angiography showed diffuse alveolar infiltrates and pleural effusion without evidence of acute venous thromboembolism. Bronchoscopy plus bronchoalveolar lavage showed hemorrhagic fluid, 60% macrophages with hemosiderin in cytology and negative cultures.

Sedation, relaxation, pronation, and protective ventilation were implemented until hemodynamic stabilization; as well as IV steroids and antibiotics.

Clinical progress was slow towards improvement with resolution of radiological or physical abnormalities. Despite severity, the patient improved satisfactorily without late sequelae.

Silicone injection can trigger phenomena similar to that seen in fat embolism causing inflammation and immune response activation that lead to alveolar hemorrhage, diffuse alveolar damage, and acute respiratory distress syndrome. We reported pulmonary complications related to the illegal use of injected silicone for esthetic procedures.