Breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma: Origin and outcome

Breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL) is an uncommon complication that can arise following insertion of a textured surface breast implant. This cancer presents as delayed fluid collection around a textured implant or surrounding scar capsule. BIA-ALCL can arise in either silicone or saline implants but only in textured implants to date and may be related to the shedding of surface particulate, which occurs in textured rather than smooth implants. Delayed seromas are not common, but upon their occurrence, there is a need to investigate for BIA-ALCL. Diagnosis of BIA-ALCL requires a monoclonal T-cell expansion of large anaplastic cells that express CD30. Treatment of BIA-ALCL involves surgical ablation with explantation of the implant and a capsulectomy, which can be curative if the disease is contained to the capsule. Testing, appropriate imaging, and oncology consultation are essential prior to any surgical intervention. The understanding of the etiology, disease progression, and treatment is important in the prevention, early diagnosis, and effective treatment of BIA-ALCL.