Have you had a breast implant? Be aware of this rare cancer (BIA-ALCL)

If you have had breast implants or are thinking about getting them, this article will be very important to you. Today we are going to talk about a very rare cancer that is associated with breast implants, but not many people talk about it. Don't be alarmed when you hear this, because this is a very rare condition. However, it is very important to be aware of this for your safety.

What exactly is BIA-ALCL?

Simply put, the full name of this is Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma, or BIA-ALCL. This is not breast cancer. It's important to remember that. BIA-ALCL is a type of lymphoma, a cancer that involves our body's immune system.

It develops in the fibrous capsule and surrounding fluid that surrounds the breast implant. It is usually a very aggressive cancer. Most people can be completely cured by surgery to remove the implant and the surrounding tissue. However, in rare, more severe cases, it can spread to nearby lymph nodes, such as those in the armpit, and to other parts of the body.

How common is this condition?

This is the most important thing. BIA-ALCL is a very, very rare condition. There are millions of women around the world who have had breast implants. But as of January 2020, this disease had only been reported 733 times worldwide. That means the chances of it happening are very low. So while you are aware of this, don't be unnecessarily scared.

What kind of breast implants are involved in this?

Research to date has shown that BIA-ALCL is most commonly associated with textured breast implants . In the past, textured implants were used because they helped the breast stay in place without moving around.

There are very few reports of this disease being associated with smooth breast implants. Also, whether the implant is filled with silicone or saline does not seem to affect this disease.

Let's also learn about recalled implants.

According to the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), approximately 85% of reported BIA-ALCL patients had been implanted with a textured implant called BIOCELL®, manufactured by Allergan. As a result, Allergan decided to withdraw that type of implant from the market.

What are the symptoms you should know?

Symptoms usually appear in only one breast. Symptoms can appear as soon as a year after the implant is placed, or they can appear years later. In women, symptoms usually begin about 8 years after the implant is placed.

Be aware of the following symptoms.

But remember, not all of these symptoms are caused by cancer. Most of the time, they are caused by,

• Capsular contracture
• Implant rupture
• An infection
• Recent injury (Trauma)

There may be other causes that are not cancer, such as: So, if you notice any changes, don't panic, but see your doctor first.

How is this diagnosed?

If you have symptoms, your doctor will first examine you. Then, if BIA-ALCL is suspected, they may refer you for tests like these.

1. Imaging Tests: The first thing you will do is an ultrasound scan. This will look for any fluid buildup or lumps in the breast. If that's not clear enough, an MRI scan may be done to look at the breast and lymph nodes in more detail.

2. Biopsy: If the scan shows fluid or a lump, the next step is a needle biopsy. Here, a small sample of the fluid or tissue is taken using a thin needle and sent to a lab.

3. Laboratory Testing: At the lab, the sample is examined under a microscope to see if there are cancer cells. Special tests (biomarker testing) are also performed to confirm whether this is BIA-ALCL or another condition.

How is it treated?

If the diagnosis is confirmed, you will be referred to a cancer specialist (oncologist).

• The main treatment is surgery: The main and most successful treatment for BIA-ALCL is surgical removal of the breast implant and the entire scar tissue (capsule) surrounding it.
• In the early stages, surgery is the only option: If the disease is in its early stages and the surgeon is able to remove the entire membrane, no other treatment may be necessary.
• Other treatments: However, if the cancer has spread, or if the membrane cannot be completely removed, you may need additional treatments. These may include:
• Radiation therapy: Using high-energy rays to kill cancer cells.
• Chemotherapy: Giving drugs to kill cancer cells.

What can be done to reduce the risk?

Although there is no way to prevent this disease, early detection can greatly improve outcomes.

• Monthly breast self-exams: Check your breasts every month. Look for any swelling, lumps, pain, or other unusual changes.
• Seek medical advice immediately if you notice any changes: If you notice even the slightest change, do not ignore it and see your doctor immediately.
• Know your implant: Know what type of breast implant you have (textured or smooth) and what company it was made by. If you don't know these details, you can ask your surgeon or the hospital where you performed the surgery.
• About Mammograms: While mammograms are important for detecting breast cancer, they are not usually helpful in detecting this lymphoma condition called BIA-ALCL.

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