It is a common assumption that BIA-ALCL is breast cancer. But while it is found in the breasts, it is actually a cancer of the immune system. BIA-ALCL is extremely rare with only at least 949 recorded cases as of 2019. Who is at risk of getting it, and what connection does it have with breast implants?
What is BIA-ALCL?
Commonly known as BIA-ALCL, Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma is a rare type of T-cell lymphoma that can form in the scar tissue capsule surrounding a breast implant. Nearly all cases of BIA-ALCL are found in patients with a history of textured breast implants.
Just like any other cancer, BIA-ALCL has the potential to spread throughout the body when not treated in a timely manner. While the worldwide cases are relatively low, there have been 36 reported deaths from the illness.
What Are The Symptoms?
The primary symptoms of BIA-ALCL are persistent swelling or pain around the breast implant area. These symptoms can appear as early as one year after getting implants or much more commonly 7-10 years after the procedure. BIA-ALCL has other common symptoms such as the following:
- Skin rashes on the breast area
- Enlargement of one or both breasts
- Breast asymmetry
- Hardening of breast tissue
- Swollen lymph nodes
How Is BIA-ALCL Treated?
Upon diagnosis of BIA-ALCL, the implants and entire capsule have to be removed via explant surgery. Time is of the essence in this case because any type of cancer can spread to other parts of the body. If the cancer is not detected early and becomes metastatic , the cancerous lymph nodes have to be removed, and chemotherapy will be necessary.
There are various techniques in explant surgery, so please make sure to find a surgeon who can perform the en bloc technique. This technique removes both the capsule and the implant in one piece. In fact, the National Comprehensive Cancer Network recommends this method of addressing BIA-ALCL. This, however, is not always possible depending on the breast implant location and condition of the capsule.
Is It Advisable to Remove The Implants Even Without Symptoms?
Due to the very low occurrence of BIA-ALCL, implant removal for undiagnosed patients (even if they have textured implants) is not currently recommended by the FDA. However, it is important to note that the BIA-ALCL develops in the scar tissue capsule. But how are scar tissue capsules formed in the first place?
The capsule around an implant is a natural response of the body toward a foreign material. Complications can arise, however, because BIA-ALCL occurs in the excess fluid between an implant and its surrounding capsule. Capsular contracture can form within years after implant placement. This is why it pays to be mindful of its early signs such as breast pain, tightness, and asymmetry.
When you experience any of the symptoms, it is best to raise this with a board-certified doctor. It may be the time for a breast implant revision. Saline and silicone implants do not last a lifetime. When left unchecked, implants can develop complications over time such as capsular contracture.
Discuss Your Implant Concerns With Dr. Marin
Your breast implant revision procedure does not have to be performed by the same surgeon. In fact, it is more difficult than your initial placement because the surgeon has to consider the presence of a scar tissue capsule in order to have favorable results.
Book a consultation with Dr. Vincent Marin, a leading expert in breast implant and revision procedures, to discuss any of your implant concerns.
*The content in this blog is developed to spread the awareness towards plastic surgery. Our blog is not intended to serve as a replacement for an actual in-office consultation with Dr. Marin. As such, the information within this blog reflects the unique cases of our individual patients.