2022 Practice Recommendation Updates From the World Consensus Conference on BIA-ALCL.

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Hematology
• Plastic Surgery

Background:

• Research on breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL) is rapidly advancing.
• The 3rd World Consensus Conference on BIA-ALCL highlighted changes in standard care and best practices.

Purpose of the Study:

• To establish practice recommendations for BIA-ALCL based on expert consensus and literature review.
• To cover epidemiology, etiology, pathogenesis, diagnosis, treatment, and socio-psychological aspects of BIA-ALCL.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive literature search of PubMed (1997-2021) was conducted, excluding irrelevant studies.
• The Delphi process involved 18 expert panelists using Likert scale questionnaires to reach consensus on 36 statements.
• Statements were refined based on median response, interquartile range, and expert comments.

Main Results:

• The literature search identified 764 manuscripts, with 218 ultimately included in the review.
• 36 statements across 5 sections were formulated based on the reviewed literature.
• Consensus was achieved among panelists after one round of review.

Conclusions:

• BIA-ALCL remains uncommon and underreported, necessitating mandatory implant registries and regulatory oversight.
• Understanding disease epidemiology and etiology requires further research into breast implant risk factors.
• Adherence to established diagnosis and treatment protocols is vital to prevent BIA-ALCL recurrence.