CTICasesSilicone Embolization Syndrome (Pulmonary)
Imaging findings
A chest radiograph showed peripheral basal consolidation. CT demonstrated very peripheral, basal-predominant ground-glass opacities, cleaving to the lung edges. Rapid improvement was observed after steroid treatment. The patient had a history of recent silicone injection into the buttocks. Imaging suggested acute pulmonary hypertension with a dilated pulmonary artery.
Key takeaways
Silicone embolization syndrome, typically resulting from illicit cosmetic injections, presents as acute lung injury characterized by peripheral, basal-predominant ground-glass opacities and consolidation, often mimicking eosinophilic pneumonia or organizing pneumonia. It can cause acute pulmonary hypertension and prompt treatment with steroids often leads to dramatic improvement. The peripheral distribution reflects its blood-borne etiology.
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