Breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma: a case report and literature review

Breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL) is a rare T-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma primarily associated with textured breast implants. Its pathological hallmarks include CD30 positivity, ALK negativity, and clonal T-cell receptor gene rearrangement. Complete surgical excision is the primary treatment modality, and early diagnosis combined with standardized management is associated with a favorable prognosis. We report a case of BIA-ALCL in a 47-year-old female who presented with breast swelling 20 years after receiving textured breast implants. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first documented case of BIA-ALCL in mainland China. Preoperative aspiration was not suggestive of BIA-ALCL, and the diagnosis was ultimately confirmed through histopathological examination of the capsule tissue. Based on a comprehensive postoperative systemic evaluation, no adjuvant therapy was required.