ANAPLASTIC LARGE-CELL LYMPHOMA (ALCL)

ALCL is a cancer of the immune system which, in rare cases, affects women with breast implants. The link between implants and ALCL first came to light in 2011, with further research confirming that the rate ALCL was higher in women with breast implants. In March 2017, the FDA officially reported that breast implants could trigger the development of ALCL.

Symptoms of BIA-ALCL (breast implant associated ALCL) do not typically appear immediately, but over time. The symptoms may include:

Pain
Lumps
Swelling
Asymmetry

TESTING FOR ALCL

To identify ALCL requires testing the fluid collected around the implant. This fluid, called a “seroma,” is not caused by ALCL, but is where the cancer cells, if present, can be identified. ALCL, when in the breast, is not a breast cancer, but a cancer of the immune system.

As reported by the FDA, ALCL is a type of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, or T-cell lymphoma. It is believed at this time that the risk of developing ALCL is higher in women with implants that have textured surfaces. At this time, it is considered that the development of ALCL may be triggered by chronic inflammation via bacterial infection.

Testing requires a multidisciplinary approach, including standard culture and cytological evaluation, along with other tests performed to exclude regional or systemic spread. With a complete removal of the implant and capsule when ALCL is diagnosed early, the prognosis for a full recovery appears to be excellent. Many women are choosing to have breast implants removed and come to Plastic Surgery Institute of Washington to undergo this important procedure.

TREATING ALCL

To treat ALCL involves removing the implant and scar tissue that surrounds it, a procedure technically termed a capsulectomy. ALCL is a rare condition but should be treated immediately once diagnosed. If you have concerns about developing ALCL, have textured implants, or symptoms that concern you, PSIW can help. ALCL is, in the majority of cases, confined to the implant capsule, and once the implant and capsule are fully removed, good health is restored.

PLASTIC SURGERY INSTITUTE OF WASHINGTON: BREAST IMPLANT REMOVAL

Our team of plastic surgeons at PSIW are each board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and serve as the regions’ premier plastic and reconstructive surgeons. If you have concerns about developing ALCL, we can assist you to remove breast implants and restore your natural breast tissue and reshape an aesthetically-appealing breast mound.

YOUR HEALTH AND BREAST IMPLANTS

While ALCL is a rare condition, you may have health concerns, particularly if your breasts were augmented with textured surface implants. Allergen, the developer of the most popular textured breast implants has suspended sales of these implants in Europe pending further studies.

Following your breast augmentation in Bethesda, it is normal to experience swelling and discomfort as the body heals and should not be cause for concern. Once you have fully recovered from surgery, if you notice any unusual swelling or pain around the implant or other changes, testing for ALCL should be performed.

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