ALCL is a rare yet aggressive type of cancer that makes up only 3 percent of lymphoma cases in adults, according to the Lymphoma Research Foundation.
In 2010, there were 60 reports of ALCL in 5-10 million people worldwide. However, only 34 of these cases were discovered in the U.S.
It is important for people to understand that ALCL is not the same as breast cancer, but is a form of lymphoma.
Breast implant recipients have reported symptoms of ALCL years, sometimes decades, after implant surgery.
Symptoms of ALCL include:
• Swelling
• Puffiness
• Pain and soreness
• Lumps
• Asymmetry of the breast
This rare cancer almost always shows up in fluid and scar tissue capsule surrounding the implant sack.
In some cases simply removing the implant and scar tissue gets rid of the disease, but some women might need chemotherapy and radiation, said Dr. William Maisel, the chief scientist and deputy director for science in the drug agency’s Center for Devices and Radiological Health.
Since reported cases of ALCL are so minimal, women with no symptoms are simply advised to get their regular annual check-ups; and make sure to inform their general physicians about their implants.
