Bilateral Exophthalmos Developed after Superficial Sclerotherapy on the Chin: Coincidence or Extraordinary Complication?
- Author:
Eui Deuk HWANG
1
;
Jun Young KIM
Author Information
1. Department of Dermatology, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, Korea
- Publication Type:Case Report
- From:Korean Journal of Dermatology
2026;64(1):33-35
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
A 15-year-old girl presented with a blue cystic mass on her right chin since birth. Doppler ultrasonography and magnetic resonance imaging confirmed a venous malformation (VM). She underwent three sessions of superficial sclerotherapy using sodium tetradecyl sulfate without imaging guidance. The lesion improved, but she began experiencing eyelid swelling and scleral show after the first treatment. Four months after the last injection, bilateral exophthalmos was confirmed. Thyroid function tests revealed hyperthyroidism and elevated thyroid stimulating hormone receptor-stimulating antibodies. She was diagnosed with dysthyroid ophthalmopathy and treated with antithyroid drugs. One year later, her chin lesion remained stable and the exophthalmos fully resolved. This case highlights the potential for a rare and unexpected distant complication of sclerotherapy. While sclerotherapy is considered one of the most effective therapeutic methods among various treatments for VM, it is also important to understand its potential complications.
