Clinical recommendations for diagnosis and treatment according to current updated knowledge on BIA-ALCL

Breast. 2022 Dec:66:332-341. doi: 10.1016/j.breast.2022.11.009. Epub 2022 Dec 3.

Abstract

Shared strategies and correct information are essential to guide physicians in the management of such an uncommon disease as Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA-ALCL). A systematic review of the literature was performed to collect the most relevant evidence on BIA-ALCL reported cases. A panel of multidisciplinary experts discussed the scientific evidence on BIA-ALCL, and updated consensus recommendations were developed through the Delphi process. The lastest reported Italian incidence of BIA-ALCL is 3.5 per 100.000 implanted patients (95% CI, 1.36 to 5.78), and the disease counts over 1216 cases worldwide as of June 2022. The most common presentation symptom is a late onset seroma followed by a palpable breast mass. In the event of a suspicious case, ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration should be the first step in evaluation, followed by cytologic and immunohistochemical examination. In patients with confirmed diagnosis of BIA-ALCL confined to the capsule, the en-bloc capsulectomy should be performed, followed by immediate autologous reconstruction, while delayed reconstruction applies for disseminate disease or radically unresectable tumor. Nevertheless, a multidisciplinary team approach is essential for the correct management of this pathology.

Keywords: ALCL; Anaplastic large cell lymphoma; BIA-ALCL; Breast cancer; Breast implants; Breast reconstruction.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Breast / pathology
  • Breast Implantation* / adverse effects
  • Breast Implants* / adverse effects
  • Breast Neoplasms* / diagnosis
  • Breast Neoplasms* / etiology
  • Breast Neoplasms* / therapy
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Lymphoma, Large-Cell, Anaplastic* / diagnosis
  • Lymphoma, Large-Cell, Anaplastic* / etiology
  • Lymphoma, Large-Cell, Anaplastic* / therapy