Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma

Breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL) is a recently recognised malignancy of T lymphocytes exclusively associated with textured breast implants. This review aims to evaluate existing theories regarding the epidemiology, pathogenesis, clinical evaluation and management of the disease.

The true incidence of BIA-ALCL is difficult to define. Prevailing pathogenic theories recognise the interplay between textured implants, Gram-negative bacteria, host genetics (e.g. JAK/STAT, p53) and time. Patients typically present with a delayed seroma and less commonly with a capsular mass or systemic disease at an average of 8-10 years after implantation. BIA-ALCL staging has evolved from a "liquid tumour" model to a "solid tumour" classification. For localised disease, surgery involving complete capsulectomy and implant removal is the cornerstone of treatment. For more advanced disease, treatment includes surgery followed by chemotherapy (combination anthracycline-based), radiotherapy and the antibody drug conjugate (brentuximab vedotin). The interplay between the Gram-negative biofilm, implant texturing, genetic mutations and time has been implicated in pathogenesis of BIA-ALCL. The identification of a putative infectious cause is not unique to lymphomagenesis. Future research, investigating BIA-ALCL genetic mutations and immunological modulation with Gram-negative biofilm in BIA-ALCL models is warranted.