Sclerosing Lipogranulomatosis: a Case Report of Scrotal Injection of Automobile Transmission Fluid and Literature Review of Subcutaneous Injection of Oils

For nearly a century, physicians and laypersons have attempted to repair, reconstruct, and embellish the human body in numerous ways by injecting various oils beneath the skin. Soon after Gersuny's first reported subcutaneous injection of oil, the local and systemic complications became apparent. Despite this, the practice of oil injections continues. "Medical grade" silicone injection was investigated in the 1960s to 1980s with varied success and complications. While few physicians practice oil injection therapy, some laypersons continue to subject themselves or their clients to the risk of the disfiguring complications of sclerosing lipogranulomata. Accidental high-pressure injection injury of liquids, so-called grease gun injuries, continues to provide a therapeutic challenge for the hand surgeon. Our case of a man who injected automobile transmission fluid into his scrotum illustrates the classical course and proper management of sclerosing lipogranulomata. A subcutaneous inflammatory and fibrosing reaction occurred with regional lymphadenopathy. The need for complete excision of all involved tissue to treat the condition successfully is illustrated. This case also illustrates the tendency of patients to conceal from their doctors the history of self-injection of foreign bodies. In cases of self-injection, psychological counseling might certainly be appropriate.