What is ALCL?
The Daily Mail recently published an article which highlighted a connection in women who have breast implants being at greater risk of developing ALCL.
What is ALCL
Anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL) is a rare type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL). Like all lymphomas, it is a cancer of the lymphatic system – part of the body’s immune system.
As an existing patient with breast implants, should I be worried?
I think at this stage it would be fair to say that there have been links reported of a connection, yet these instances are sporadic and very rare. To put these instances into context; In 2011 the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) identified a possible association between Breast Implants and the development of ALCL. At that time they were aware of 60 cases of the 5-10 million who have had breast implant surgery, which included 34 unique cases reported between 1997 and 2010.
Since that time the FDA have published their preliminary findings which say ‘Although ALCL is extremely rare, the FDA believes that women with breast implants may have a very small but increased risk of developing this disease in the scar capsule adjacent to the implant. Based on available information, it is not possible to confirm with statistical certainty that breast implants cause ALCL. At this time, data appear to indicate that the incidence of ALCL is very low, even in breast implant patients. Currently it is not possible to identify a type of implant (silicone versus saline) or a reason for implant (reconstruction versus aesthetic augmentation) associated with a smaller or greater risk’.
So what is the advice?
If you have breast implants, there is no need to change your routine medical care and follow-up. ALCL is very rare; it has occurred in only a very small number of the millions of women who have breast implants. Although not specific to ALCL, you should follow standard medical recommendations including:
•Monitor your breast implants. If you notice any changes including lumps, contact your health care provider promptly to schedule an appointment.
•Get routine mammography screening.
If you are considering Breast Augmentation, what is the advice?
If you do not currently have breast implants but are considering breast implant surgery, discuss the risks and benefits with your surgeon. You may also visit FDA’s Breast Implants website for additional information.
For Further information about Breast Surgery, please visit my websitehttps://www.berkshireplasticsurgery.co.uk/breast-augmentation/ or to make an appointment at a clinic in Reading, Windsor or Berkshire, please call 01753 665 434
