CTICasesIntrapleural Silicone Leak
Imaging findings
CT chest shows numerous high-attenuation silicone globules and calcifications lining the pleural space and fissures. The patient has a history of cosmetic breast implants and a subsequent axillary sympathetic ganglionectomy, during which the implant was accidentally ruptured, creating a communication into the pleural space.
Key takeaways
Accidental intraoperative rupture of a breast implant can lead to leakage of silicone into the pleural cavity, mimicking pleural metastases or chronic calcifying pleuritis on imaging. Over time, the silicone globules prompt a chronic foreign-body inflammatory reaction, leading to encapsulation and dense calcification.
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