silicone granuloma
Chronic inflammatory reaction to silicone material presenting as nodular tissue formation.
Full Definition
A delayed immune response characterized by the formation of granulomatous tissue around silicone particles or deposits. These reactions can occur years after silicone injection or implantation and present as firm, sometimes painful nodules in the affected tissue. Silicone granulomas may result from implant rupture, injection of industrial-grade silicone, or migration of medical-grade silicone. Histologically, they show foreign body giant cells and chronic inflammation. Treatment typically requires surgical excision, though complete removal can be challenging due to the infiltrative nature of the silicone material.
Usage
Usage note: Two words, not hyphenated; distinguish from normal capsule formation around implants.
In Context
- "Biopsy revealed silicone granuloma formation consistent with implant leakage." — Pathology report
- "The patient developed multiple silicone granulomas following illegal silicone injection." — Clinical assessment