Breast augmentation is a popular cosmetic surgery procedure with over 300,000 women undergoing the surgery each year.

While the procedure is generally considered safe, recent research has linked breast implants with Anaplastic Megalocytic Lymphoma (ALCL), a rare but potentially lethal form of cancer.

What is Anaplastic Megalocytic Lymphoma?

ALCL is a type of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, a cancer that affects the lymphatic system. It is an aggressive cancer that can quickly spread to other parts of the body and is often fatal if not treated promptly.

The link between ALCL and breast implants was first discovered in 1997, when a patient with breast implants was diagnosed with the cancer. Since then, several studies have been conducted to investigate the link between the two.

How is ALCL Linked to Breast Implants?

The exact mechanism behind the link between ALCL and breast implants is not fully understood. However, it is believed that the cancer is caused by a reaction between the breast implant surface and the body’s immune system.

This reaction can cause the formation of a layer of scar tissue around the implant, known as a capsule.

In some cases, this scar tissue can become inflamed, leading to the development of ALCL. The cancer cells typically develop in the fluid surrounding the implant or within the capsule itself.

How Common is ALCL in Women with Breast Implants?

While ALCL is a rare cancer, it is more common in women with breast implants than in the general population. According to the U.S.

Food and Drug Administration (FDA), there have been 733 reported cases of ALCL in women with breast implants as of September 2020. The majority of these cases have been linked to textured breast implants, which have a rough surface that can promote the formation of scar tissue.

However, it’s worth noting that the overall risk of developing ALCL as a result of breast implants is still very low.

The FDA estimates that the risk of developing ALCL from textured breast implants is approximately 1 in 2,207 to 1 in 86,029 patients.

What are the Symptoms of ALCL?

The symptoms of ALCL can vary from patient to patient, but may include:.

Swelling of the breast
Lumps in the breast or armpit
Pain in the breast or armpit
Asymmetry of the breasts
Fluid accumulation around the breast implant
General fatigue and malaise

If you have breast implants and are experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to speak with your doctor right away.

Treatment for ALCL

The treatment for ALCL typically involves removal of the breast implants and surrounding scar tissue. Additional treatment, such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy, may be needed depending on the stage of the cancer.

If caught early, the prognosis for ALCL is generally good. However, if the cancer is not treated promptly, it can quickly spread to other parts of the body and become more difficult to treat.

Are Breast Implants Safe?

Despite the link between breast implants and ALCL, breast augmentation is still a safe procedure with a low risk of complications. However, as with any medical procedure, there are risks involved.

Potential risks of breast implants include:.

Changes in breast sensation
Scarring
Implant rupture or deflation
Changes in breast shape or size
Infection
Breast pain

If you are considering breast augmentation, it’s important to discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor and make an informed decision based on your individual needs and medical history.

Conclusion

While the link between breast implants and ALCL is concerning, it’s important to remember that the overall risk of developing the cancer as a result of breast augmentation is very low.

However, if you have breast implants and are experiencing symptoms such as swelling or lumps, it’s important to speak with your doctor right away. By catching ALCL early and getting prompt treatment, the prognosis for the cancer is generally good.