Delayed-onset granulomatous reaction presenting as chronic facial edema: a review of the diagnostic and therapeutic challenges

ABSTRACT

Injection of soft tissue fillers for esthetic purposes is considered a relatively simple, minimally invasive procedure. Although rare, significant complications exist and may occur in the setting of both non-medical grade and medical-grade silicone fillers, administered by untrained or trained providers. We report a case of a 61 y/o male with an unusual case of foreign body granulomas arising on his forehead and periorbital region for the past 3 years. He had no drug allergies or history of trauma. He only recalled administration of “Botox” near the affected area 20 years ago, although he acknowledged being unsure of the nature of the substance. Examination showed bilateral, periorbital, edematous plaques, with subcutaneous nodules on the forehead. Punch biopsy showed multiple vacuoles surrounded by collagen bundles in the dermis, a histiocytic infiltrate, and multinucleated giant cells. Based on clinicopathological correlation, a diagnosis of foreign body granuloma related to silicone filler injections was made. He was treated with intralesional steroids and doxycycline 100 mg twice daily with complete resolution. Physicians should acknowledge this potential complication of silicone fillers and should inquire about their use with close-ended questions. We also review the diagnostic and therapeutic challenges faced by physicians when encountering this diagnosis.

KEYWORDS:

• Silicone
• foreign body granuloma
• soft tissue fillers
• botox
• hyaluronic acid

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