Allergan Implants and Breast Cancer

Why is the FDA recalling the Allergan Biocell breast implants?

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a recall for all textured saline-filled breast implants manufactured by Allergan, Inc. The recall comes after reports of a rare cancer called breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL). In addition to the textured saline-filled breast implants, Allergan has also recalled one of their textured silicone gel filled breast implants.

In this article, we’ll fill you in on what BIA-ALCL is, how it’s diagnosed, and what you should do if you have these products implanted in your body.

What is BIA-ALCL?

BIA-ALCL is a rare form of lymphoma that develops around breast implants after they are placed. The lymphoma is an aggressive type of cancer that can spread quickly throughout the body and become life threatening if left untreated. In some cases, patients who develop BIA-ALCL may require chemotherapy or radiation therapy to treat the disease.

Signs & Symptoms of BIA-ALCL

This form of ALCL often begins with symptoms similar to those of other lymphomas, including:

* Painless swelling in one or both breasts

* Swelling around the neck or underarm area (lymph nodes)

* Fever and night sweats (persistent high temperature)

* Loss of appetite or weight loss

How is BIA-ALCL Diagnosed?

The FDA has recommended that women with textured breast implants undergo a CT scan of the chest and abdomen. This is because it can be difficult to distinguish between BIA-ALCL and other forms of lymphoma, such as SLL/CLL or FL. A biopsy of one or more lesions may also be performed in order to confirm the diagnosis.

If you or a loved one had breast implants and have been diagnosed with BIA-ALCL after receiving a breast implant, please call NGRV today at 202-792-7927 for a free consultation.