Autologous fat transplantation for multiple scattered steroid atrophy and hypopigmentation: A case report

INTRODUCTION AND IMPORTANCE: The common complications of triamcinolone acetonide injection are subcutaneous atrophy and hypopigmentation. Several therapies have been reported, including autologous fat grafting, saline injection, and various filler injections. However, severe cases of both subcutaneous atrophy and hypopigmentation occurring together are rare. In this case report, we present a successful autologous fat transplantation treatment to address multiple severe subcutaneous atrophy and hypopigmentation caused by triamcinolone acetonide injection. CASE PRESENTATION: A 27-year-old woman presented with multiple hyperplastic scars and bulges after undergoing correcting liposuction sequela of thighs by autologous fat transplantation and received only one triamcinolone acetonide injection (the specifics of the drug, dosage and injection site were not known). Unfortunately， the injected areas showed severe subcutaneous atrophy and hypopigmentation, and there was no improvement observed for two years. To address this, we performed only one autologous fat transplantation procedure which significantly improved the atrophy and hypopigmentation. The patient was highly satisfied with the results. CLINICAL DISCUSSION: Most cases of subcutaneous atrophy and hypopigmentation caused by triamcinolone acetonide injection resolve spontaneously within a year, but severe cases may require more aggressive treatments. Autologous fat transplantation has been shown to be a highly effective method for treating large areas or severe atrophy, with additional benefits such as scar softening and skin quality enhancement. CONCLUSION: Autologous fat transplantation may be a promising approach for severe subcutaneous atrophic areas and hypopigmentation caused by triamcinolone acetonide injection. Further research is needed to confirm and expand upon our findings.