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Axillary lymphadenopathy 17 years after digital silicone implants: study with x-ray microanalysis
1Pathology Department, University of Arizona College of Medicine, Tucson.
The Journal of Hand Surgery
|May 1, 1988
Summary
Foreign material from rheumatoid arthritis implants caused axillary lymphadenopathy 17 years later. Silicone was identified, highlighting a long latent period that can mimic serious diseases.
Area of Science:
- Rheumatology
- Materials Science
- Pathology
Background:
- Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) management often involves joint implants.
- Swanson implants are commonly used for hand deformities in RA patients.
- Long-term complications of implants require ongoing investigation.
Observation:
- A patient with RA presented with axillary lymphadenopathy.
- The lymphadenopathy appeared 17 years after receiving Swanson implants in the hand.
- This clinical presentation raised diagnostic concerns.
Findings:
- Energy-dispersive x-ray microanalysis identified foreign material within the lymph nodes.
- The foreign material was confirmed to be silicone.
- This indicated a delayed reaction to the implant material.
Implications:
- The findings highlight a significant, long latent period for silicone-related lymphadenopathy.
- This condition can be mistaken for more severe pathologies, necessitating careful diagnosis.
- Awareness of implant material migration is crucial for long-term patient monitoring in rheumatology.