Epstein-Barr-virus-positive large B-cell lymphoma associated with breast implants: an analysis of eight patients suggesting a possible pathogenetic relationship

Fibrin associated large B-cell lymphoma accidentally identified in a breast implant capsule: a molecular report of a rare entity

Breast implant-associated (BIA) lymphoma is a rare malignancy, typically originating from T-cells; however, few cases of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (LBCL) have been recently described. These cases share major features: Epstein-Barr virus positivity and a favorable prognosis with surgical intervention alone, hinting at a potential link to fibrin-associated LBCL (FA-LBCL). This study presents the first case of BIA-FA-LBCL in Italy and one of the few assessed from a molecular standpoint so far. We identified two pathogenic mutations in DNMT3A and a variant of uncertain significance (VUS) in JAK2. These findings suggest that dysfunctional epigenetic mechanisms and constitutive activation of the JAK-STAT pathway may underpin BIA-FA-LBCL lymphomagenesis. Finally, we summarized all the previously reported cases in alignment with the updated WHO-HAEM5 classification, shedding further light on the nature of this new entity. This report highlights the rarity of BIA-FA-LBCL and underscores the importance of comprehensive capsule sampling and reporting to national databases for accurate characterization and management of these lymphomas. The study supports the classification of BIA-FA-LBCL within the spectrum of FA-LBCL, emphasizing the need for further research to elucidate its molecular underpinnings and improve clinical outcomes.

Fifth Edition of the World Health Organization Classification of Tumors of the Hematopoietic and Lymphoid Tissues: Mature T-Cell, NK-Cell, and Stroma-Derived Neoplasms of Lymphoid Tissues

This review focuses on mature T cells, natural killer (NK) cells, and stroma-derived neoplasms in the fifth edition of the World Health Organization classification of hematolymphoid tumors, including changes from the revised fourth edition. Overall, information has expanded, primarily due to advancements in genomic understanding. The updated classification adopts a hierarchical format. The updated classification relies on a multidisciplinary approach, incorporating insights from a diverse group of pathologists, clinicians, and geneticists. Indolent NK-cell lymphoproliferative disorder of the gastrointestinal tract, Epstein-Barr virus-positive nodal T- and NK-cell lymphoma, and several stroma-derived neoplasms of lymphoid tissues have been newly introduced or included. The review also provides guidance on how the fifth edition of the World Health Organization classification of hematolymphoid tumors can be applied in routine clinical practice.

The Spectrum of Non-neoplastic Changes Associated With Breast Implants: Histopathology, Imaging, and Clinical Significance

Breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma has been recognized as a distinct entity in the World Health Organization classification of hematolymphoid neoplasms. These neoplasms are causally related to textured implants that were used worldwide until recently. Consequently, there is an increased demand for processing periprosthetic capsules, adding new challenges for surgeons, clinicians, and pathologists. In the literature, the focus has been on breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma; however, benign complications related to the placement of breast implants occur in up to 20% to 30% of patients. Imaging studies are helpful in assessing patients with breast implants for evidence of implant rupture, changes in tissues surrounding the implants, or regional lymphadenopathy related to breast implants, but pathologic examination is often required. In this review, we couple our experience with a review of the literature to describe a range of benign lesions associated with breast implants that can be associated with different clinical presentations or pathogenesis and that may require different diagnostic approaches. We illustrate the spectrum of the most common of these benign disorders, highlighting their clinical, imaging, gross, and microscopic features. Finally, we propose a systematic approach for the diagnosis and handling of breast implant specimens in general.

Fibrin-Associated Large B-Cell Lymphoma (FA-LBCL) Involving Solid Organs as Necrotic Cystic Lesions-A Rare Entity with Potential Diagnostic Pitfalls: A Two-Case Series and Review of the Literature

Fibrin-associated large B-cell lymphoma (FA-LBCL) is a rare subtype of Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)-associated lymphoma, recognized as an independent entity per the 5th edition of the WHO classification of hematolymphoid neoplasms. It is usually associated with longstanding chronic inflammation and arises within fibrinous material in confined anatomic spaces. We report the clinicopathologic manifestations of two patients of FA-LBCL involving the adrenal gland and kidney. Both tumors were diagnosed after presenting as cystic masses on imaging studies. These lymphomas were non-invasive, with microscopic aggregates of large B-lymphoma cells along/within cystic wall and admixed with fibrinous material and without prominent inflammation. By immunohistochemistry and in-situ hybridization, lymphoma cells were positive for CD45, PAX5, CD79a, MUM1, BCL2, PD-L1, and EBV/EBER (Epstein-Barr virus encoded small RNA) with a high proliferation index. Both patients remain in remission after management with complete surgical resection and additional chemo-immunotherapy in one patient. Considering its rarity, scant tumor cells, and varied clinical presentations, FA-LBCL may pose diagnostic challenges, especially when presenting as extensively necrotic cystic lesions, needing multidisciplinary collaboration in formulating management.

An Update on Implant-Associated Malignancies and Their Biocompatibility

Implanted medical devices are widely used across various medical specialties for numerous applications, ranging from cardiovascular supports to orthopedic prostheses and cosmetic enhancements. However, recent observations have raised concerns about the potential of these implants to induce malignancies in the tissues surrounding them. There have been several case reports documenting the occurrence of cancers adjacent to these devices, prompting a closer examination of their safety. This review delves into the epidemiology, clinical presentations, pathological findings, and hypothesized mechanisms of carcinogenesis related to implanted devices. It also explores how the surgical domain and the intrinsic properties and biocompatibility of the implants might influence the development of these rare but serious malignancies. Understanding these associations is crucial for assessing the risks associated with the use of medical implants, and for developing strategies to mitigate potential adverse outcomes.

Fifth Edition of the World Health Classification of Tumors of the Hematopoietic and Lymphoid Tissues: B-cell Neoplasms

We review B-cell neoplasms in the 5th edition of the World Health Organization classification of hematolymphoid tumors (WHO-HEM5). The revised classification is based on a multidisciplinary approach including input from pathologists, clinicians, and other experts. The WHO-HEM5 follows a hierarchical structure allowing the use of family (class)-level definitions when defining diagnostic criteria are partially met or a complete investigational workup is not possible. Disease types and subtypes have expanded compared with the WHO revised 4th edition (WHO-HEM4R), mainly because of the expansion in genomic knowledge of these diseases. In this review, we focus on highlighting changes and updates in the classification of B-cell lymphomas, providing a comparison with WHO-HEM4R, and offering guidance on how the new classification can be applied to the diagnosis of B-cell lymphomas in routine practice.

CD30 Lateral Flow and Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assays for Detection of BIA-ALCL: A Pilot Study

INTRODUCTION

Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA-ALCL) commonly presents as a peri-implant effusion (seroma). CD30 (TNFRSF8) is a consistent marker of tumor cells but also can be expressed by activated lymphocytes in benign seromas. Diagnosis of BIA-ALCL currently includes cytology and detection of CD30 by immunohistochemistry or flow cytometry, but these studies require specialized equipment and pathologists' interpretation. We hypothesized that a CD30 lateral flow assay (LFA) could provide a less costly rapid test for soluble CD30 that eventually could be used by non-specialized personnel for point-of-care diagnosis of BIA-ALCL.

METHODS

We performed LFA for CD30 and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for 15 patients with pathologically confirmed BIA-ALCL and 10 patients with benign seromas. To determine the dynamic range of CD30 detection by LFA, we added recombinant CD30 protein to universal buffer at seven different concentrations ranging from 125 pg/mL to 10,000 pg/mL. We then performed LFA for CD30 on cryopreserved seromas of 10 patients with pathologically confirmed BIA-ALCL and 10 patients with benign seromas.

RESULTS

Recombinant CD30 protein added to universal buffer produced a distinct test line at concentrations higher than 1000 pg/mL and faint test lines at 250-500 pg/mL. LFA produced a positive test line for all BIA-ALCL seromas undiluted and for 8 of 10 malignant seromas at 1:10 dilution, whereas 3 of 10 benign seromas were positive undiluted but all were negative at 1:10 dilution. Undiluted CD30 LFA had a sensitivity of 100.00%, specificity of 70.00%, positive predictive value of 76.92%, and negative predictive value of 100.00% for BIA-ALCL. When specimens were diluted 1:10, sensitivity was reduced to 80.00% but specificity and positive predictive values increased to 100.00%, while negative predictive value was reduced to 88.33%. When measured by ELISA, CD30 was below 1200 pg/mL in each of six benign seromas, whereas seven BIA-ALCL seromas contained CD30 levels > 2300 pg/mL, in all but one case calculated from dilutions of 1:10 or 1:50.

CONCLUSIONS

BIA-ALCL seromas can be distinguished from benign seromas by CD30 ELISA and LFA, but LFA requires less time (<20 min) and can be performed without special equipment by non-specialized personnel, suggesting future point-of-care testing for BIA-ALCL may be feasible.

EBV-negative Fibrin-Associated Large B-Cell Lymphoma Arising in Thyroid Hyperplastic Nodule: Report of a Case and Literature Review

Fibrin-associated large B-cell lymphoma is a rare microscopic-sized tumor, typically representing an unexpected finding at sites rich in chronic fibrin deposition. It is associated with Epstein-Barr virus, and has been reported to occur in a wide variety of anatomic sites and clinical scenarios. We report a case arising in a thyroid hyperplastic nodule, only the second case reported in this location. Notably, this is only the fourth case of fibrin-associated large B-cell lymphoma that is not associated with Epstein-Barr virus. We provide a literature review on the clinico-pathological characteristics and outcome of this newly characterized indolent lymphoma type, which has only recently been separated out from the pathologically similar but highly aggressive large B-cell lymphoma associated with chronic inflammation.

Breast silicone implants' pericapsular impairment: current underdiagnosed status

Many complications related to silicone implants have been reported recently, from clinical symptoms manifestations to association with some specific types of cancer. During the early 2010s, it was believed that implants were biocompatible and inert to the human body and that gel bleeding/leakage events were rare and without repercussions for the human body. However, at the end of 2010s, several studies pointed out that gel bleeding was more frequent than previously believed, and the pathogenic potential of free silicone should not be ignored. The Food and Drug Administration recommends performing magnetic resonance imaging in asymptomatic patients 5-6 years after implant placement. The descriptors in the Breast Imaging and Reporting Data System lexicon seem outdated for classifying the new generations of implants with cohesive gel, which hinders the diagnosis of device complications. In this review, supported by our research data publications related to silicone implants for 6 years on a prospective study protocol, most of them being original articles, we summarized the main complications observed in clinical practice and discuss the impact of these changes on patients' outcomes focusing on the pericapsular space.

Cavity-based lymphomas: challenges and novel concepts. A report of the 2022 EA4HP/SH lymphoma workshop

The 2022 European Association for Haematopathology/Society for Hematopathology lymphoma workshop session on cavity-based lymphomas included sixty-eight cases in seven sections. The disease entities discussed include primary effusion lymphomas (PEL), extracavitary primary effusion lymphomas and confounding entities (ECPEL), HHV8-negative B-lineage lymphomas-effusion based (EBV-negative, EBV-positive, and plasmablastic types), diffuse large B-cell lymphoma associated with chronic inflammation, fibrin-associated diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (FA-DLBCL), breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL), and other lymphomas presenting as an effusion. All entities above are discussed; however, three are delved into greater detail given the challenges with classification: ECPEL, HHV8-negative effusion-based lymphomas, and FA-DLBCL. Cases exemplifying the diagnostic difficulty in differentiating ECPEL from HHV8-positive diffuse large B-cell lymphoma and germinotropic lymphoproliferative disorder were discussed. The more recently recognized effusion-based HHV8-negative large B-cell lymphoma is explored, with several cases submitted raising the question if this subset should be carved out as a specific entity, and if so, what should be the refining diagnostic criteria. Case submissions to the FA-DLBCL section yielded one of the largest case series to date, including classic cases, cases furthering the discussion on disease sites and prognosis, as well as novel concepts to be considered in this entity. The 2022 EA4HP/SH workshop cases allowed for further confirmation of the characteristics of some of the more historically accepted cavity-based lymphomas, as well as further inquiry and debate on relatively new or evolving entities.

The evaluation of the delayed swollen breast in patients with a history of breast implants

Breast implants, whether placed for reconstructive or cosmetic purposes, are rarely lifetime devices. Rupture, resulting from compromised implant shell integrity, and capsular contracture caused by constriction of the specialized scar tissue that normally forms around breast implants, have long been recognized, and remain the leading causes of implant failure. It is apparent, however, that women with breast implants may also experience delayed breast swelling due to a range of etiologic factors. While a majority of delayed seromas associated with breast implants have a benign etiology, this presentation cannot be ignored without an adequate workup as malignancies such as breast implant associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL), breast implant associated diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (BIA-DLBCL), and breast implant associated squamous cell carcinoma (BIA-SCC) can have a similar clinical presentation. Since these malignancies occur with sufficient frequency, and with sometimes lethal consequences, their existence must be recognized, and an appropriate diagnostic approach implemented. A multidisciplinary team that involves a plastic surgeon, radiologist, pathologist, and, as required, surgical and medical oncologists can expedite judicious care. Herein we review and further characterize conditions that can lead to delayed swelling around breast implants.

Breast Implant-Associated Tumors

In addition to anaplastic large T-cell lymphomas (BIA-ALCL), other implant-related tumors have been described for some years. Squamous cell carcinoma (SSC) and B-cell lymphomas occurred in very rare cases. The unexplained pathogenesis as well as the unclear individual risk profile is an ongoing source of uncertainty for patients and physicians. The pathogenesis of the tumors is still largely not understood. While BIA-ALCL occurs more frequently with textured breast implants, other tumors were also observed with smooth implants and at other implant sites. Multiple potential mechanisms are discussed. It is suspected that the etiology of a chronic inflammatory response and subsequently immunostimulation is multifactorial and appears to play a key role in the malignant transformation. Since there are currently no sufficiently valid data for a specific risk assessment, this must be done with caution. This article presents the incidence, pathogenesis, as well as the level of evidence according to the current state of knowledge, and evaluates and discusses the current literature.

A New Face of Fibrin-Associated Large B-Cell Lymphoma: Epstein-Barr Virus-Positive Breast Implant-Associated Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma

Recently, there have been reports of what could be a new lymphoproliferative entity: breast implant-associated Epstein-Barr virus positive (EBV+) diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (EBV+ BIA-DLBCL). The new World Health Organization classification has categorized it as fibrin-associated large B-cell lymphomas (FA-LBCLs); therefore, it could be referred to as breast implant-associated fibrin-associated large B-cell lymphomas (BIA-FA-LBCLs). Although the association between breast implants and lymphomas has been known since the mid-1990s, it has been almost exclusively breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL). Here, we describe the first case of BIA-FA-LBCL at our center, with a literature review of the clinical features, diagnosis and treatment approach of this lymphoma. We also explore the differential diagnosis of BIA-FA-LBCL, highlighting the diagnostic challenges and the reasons that have led these lymphomas to being labeled as a new face of FA-LBCL.

Breast implant associated EBV-positive Diffuse Large B-cell lymphoma: an underrecognized entity?

Breast-implant associated (BIA) lymphoma is an infrequent type of cancer occurring in the fluid and fibrous capsule around a textured breast implant. Recently, both the 2022 WHO 5th edition classification of Haematological tumours (WHO HAEM5) and 2022 International Consensus Classification of Mature Lymphoid Neoplasms (22ICC), recognized breast implant-associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA-ALCL) as a definitive entity, defined as a mature CD30-positive T-cell lymphoma, confined by a fibrous capsule, in a breast implant setting. Only few B-cell lymphomas have been reported in the literature to be associated with breast implants. Here we report two EBV-positive Diffuse Large B-cell lymphomas (EBV + DLBCL) in relation to a breast implant, both expressing CD30 as well as EBV latency type 3. Both lesions were considered as DLBCL associated with chronic inflammation (CI-DLBCL), but one presented as a 7 cm solid mass, while the other presented as a fibrin-associated DLBCL (FA-DLBCL) in an HIV patient. Clinically, both are in complete remission 6 months or longer after capsulectomy and graft removal, without additional chemotherapy.Such cases, characterized by large CD30-positive cells, can easily be misdiagnosed as BIA-ALCL if the cell of origin is not further established. Therefore, a diagnostic panel including lineage-specific B-and T-cell markers and EBER in situ hybridization is essential to recognize this rare entity, to understand lymphomagenesis, to predict outcome and to define clinical approach.

A Spectrum of Disease: Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma, Atypicals, and Other Implant Associations

Breast implant associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL) is an uncommon and emerging malignancy caused by textured breast implants. The most common patient presentation is delayed seromas, other presentations include breast asymmetry, overlying skin rashes, palpable masses, lymphadenopathy, and capsular contracture. Confirmed diagnoses should receive lymphoma oncology consultation, multidisciplinary evaluation, and PET-CT or CT scan evaluation prior to surgical treatment. Disease confined to the capsule is curable in the majority of patients with complete surgical resection. BIA-ALCL is now recognized as one disease among a spectrum of inflammatory mediated malignancies which include implant-associated squamous cell carcinoma and B cell lymphoma.

The plasticity of biocompatibility

Biocompatibility concerns the phenomena that occur within the interactions between biomaterials and human patients, which ultimately control the performance of many facets of medical technology. It involves aspects of materials science, many different forms of engineering and nanotechnology, chemistry, biophysics, molecular and cellular biology, immunology, pathology and a myriad of clinical applications. It is not surprising that an overarching framework of mechanisms of biocompatibility has been difficult to elucidate and validate. This essay discusses one fundamental reason for this; we have tended to consider biocompatibility pathways as essentially linear sequences of events which follow well-understood processes of materials science and biology. The reality, however, is that the pathways may involve a great deal of plasticity, in which many additional idiosyncratic factors, including those of genetic, epigenetic and viral origin, exert influence, as do complex mechanical, physical and pharmacological variables. Plasticity is an inherent core feature of the performance of synthetic materials; here we follow the more recent biological applications of plasticity concepts into the sphere of biocompatibility pathways. A straightforward linear pathway may result in successful outcomes for many patients; we may describe this in terms of classic biocompatibility pathways. In other situations, which usually command much more attention because of their unsuccessful outcomes, these plasticity-driven processes follow alternative biocompatibility pathways; often, the variability in outcomes with identical technologies is due to biological plasticity rather than material or device deficiency.

Immunodeficiency-Associated Epstein-Barr Virus-Positive B-cell Lymphoproliferative Disorders

Sources of immune deficiency and dysregulation (IDD) are being increasingly recognized and defined, as are IDD-related B-cell lymphoproliferative lesions and lymphomas occurring in these patients. In this review, basic biology of Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) as it relates to classification of EBV-positive B-cell lymphoproliferative disorders (LPDs) is reviewed. Also discussed is the new paradigm of classification of IDD-related LPDs adopted by the fifth edition World Health Organization classification. IDD-related EBV-positive B-cell hyperplasias, LPDs, and lymphomas are discussed with particular attention to unifying and unique features that assist with recognition of these IDD-related lesions and their classification scheme.

Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma

Pathologic staging including assessment of margins is essential for the proper management of patients with breast implant-associated anaplastic large-cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL). As most patients present with effusion, cytologic examination with immunohistochemistry and/or flow cytometry immunophenotyping are essential for diagnosis. Upon a diagnosis of BIA-ALCL, en bloc resection is recommended. When a tumor mass is not identified, a systematic approach to fixation and sampling of the capsule, followed by pathologic staging and assessment of margins, is essential. Cure is likely when lymphoma is contained within the en bloc resection and margins are negative. Incomplete resection or positive margins require a multidisciplinary team assessment for adjuvant therapy.

Evaluation of Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma With Whole Exome and Genome Sequencing

BACKGROUND

Breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL) is a rare malignancy originating from the periprosthetic capsule of a textured, most often macrotextured, breast implant. Identified in women whose indications for breast implants can be either aesthetic or reconstructive, the genomic underpinnings of this disease are only beginning to be elucidated.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to evaluate the exomes, and in some cases the entire genome, of patients with BIA-ALCL. Specific attention was paid to copy number alterations, chromosomal translocations, and other genomic abnormalities overrepresented in patients with BIA-ALCL.

METHODS

Whole-exome sequencing was performed on 6 patients, and whole-genome sequencing on 3 patients, with the Illumina NovaSeq 6000 sequencer. Data were analyzed with the Illumina DRAGEN Bio-IT Platform and the ChromoSeq pipeline. The Pathseq Genome Analysis Toolkit pipeline was used to detect the presence of microbial genomes in the sequenced samples.

RESULTS

Two cases with STAT3 mutations and 2 cases with NRAS mutations were noted. A critically deleted 7-Mb region was identified at the 11q22.3 region of chromosome 11, and multiple nonrecurrent chromosomal rearrangements were identified by whole-genome sequencing. Recurrent gene-level rearrangements, however, were not identified. None of the samples showed evidence of potential microbial pathogens.

CONCLUSIONS

Although no recurrent mutations were identified, this study identified mutations in genes not previously reported with BIA-ALCL or other forms of ALCL. Furthermore, not previously reported with BIA-ALCL, 11q22.3 deletions were consistent across whole-genome sequencing cases and present in some exomes.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 5

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

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.

Breast Implanted-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma: A Case of Advanced Disease with Flow Cytometric Findings

Breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (breast implant-associated ALCL) is a recently described, distinct clinicopathological entity associated with macrotextured breast implants. The diagnostic workup of a patient suspected to have breast implant-associated ALCL includes cytological assessment of effusions and tissue biopsies of any masses or enlarged lymph nodes, with morphologic and immunophenotypic evaluation and possible flow cytometric and molecular testing. We report the case of a woman found to have breast implant-associated ALCL on fine needle aspirate and core biopsy, who on surgical resection, had extensive local disease with involvement of the resection margins and lymph nodes, requiring systemic treatment. We focus on the flow cytometric findings that identified a population of large cells on the CD30/side scatter dot plot and whose immunophenotype was consistent with breast implant-associated ALCL, highlighting the value of flow cytometry as an adjunct to morphological and immunophenotypic evaluation.

Primary Lymphomas of the Breast: A Review

Lymphomas of the breast are rare neoplasms that arise from breast lymphoid tissue and are characterised by neoplastic B or T cells. Breast lymphomas arising from B cells include, but are not limited to, diffuse large B cell lymphoma, follicular lymphoma, extra-nodal marginal zone lymphoma and Burkitt lymphoma. Anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL) is of a T cell origin and both anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK)-positive and ALK-negative presentations have been noted in the breast. In addition, there is a more recently identified presentation of ALK-negative ALCL that arises around textured breast implants and is usually confined to a periprosthetic fibrous capsule. Here, we discuss the clinical presentations, histological and immunohistochemical features and treatment options for each type of primary breast lymphoma. We hope that this review will highlight the importance of the timely and accurate diagnosis of breast lymphoma in order to tailor the most appropriate treatment. We also wish to raise awareness of the breast implant-associated lymphomas, with the goal of stimulating work that will aid our understanding of their epidemiology and pathogenesis.

Clinicopathological features of syncytial variant nodular sclerosis Hodgkin lymphoma

The syncytial variant of nodular sclerosis Hodgkin lymphoma (SV-NSHL) is uncommon, and its clinicopathological features have not been well analyzed. In this study, we collected 142 cases of SV-NSHL. There were 76 (53.5%) males and 66 (46.5%) females with a median age of 28 years (range, 12-78); 59.9% were younger than 30 years. Patients usually presented with a mediastinal mass (97.6%) and often with bulky (35.7%) and advanced stage disease (3 or 4) (39.7%). Follow-up showed that 61.1% of patients developed relapse after standard therapy. Morphologically, the neoplasms were composed of sheets or large clusters of pleomorphic neoplastic cells with a cohesive appearance that were frequently associated with necrosis. Neutrophils and eosinophils were frequent in the background, whereas small lymphocytes were decreased. Immunohistochemical analysis showed that the following markers were frequently positive: CD30 (100%), MUM1/IRF4 (96%), PAX5 (95%), PD-L1 (91%), and CD15 (80%). CD45 was negative in all cases. Epstein-Barr virus-encoded small RNA (EBER) was detected in 19% of cases. In this cohort, age above 30 years (P = .0430), presence of B-type symptoms (P = .0394), elevated serum lactate dehydrogenase level (P = .0004), and disease relapse (P = .0108) were associated with a poorer overall survival. In contrast, patients with EBER-positive neoplasms had a better survival (P = .0418). Compared with a control group of non-SV-NSHL patients, patients with SV-NSHL were associated with a poorer overall survival (P = .011). These data suggest that SV morphology is associated with a poorer prognosis in patients treated with traditional standard-of-care therapy for classic Hodgkin lymphoma.

ALK-Negative Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma: Current Concepts and Molecular Pathogenesis of a Heterogeneous Group of Large T-Cell Lymphomas

Simple Summary

ALK- anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALK- ALCL) is a rare subtype of CD30+ large T-cell lymphoma that typically affects older adults and has a poor prognosis. Recognition of its histopathologic spectrum, subtypes, and of other tumors that can resemble ALK- ALCL is crucial to avoid making a wrong diagnosis that could result in inappropriate treatment for a patient. In recent years, several important studies have identified recurrent molecular alterations that have shed light on the pathogenesis of this lymphoma. However, on the other hand, putting all this vast information together into a concise form has become challenging. In this review, we present not only a more detailed view of the histopathologic findings of ALK- ALCL but also, we attempt to provide a more simplified perspective of the relevant genetic and molecular alterations of this type of lymphoma, that in our opinion, is not available to date.

Abstract

Anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL) is a subtype of CD30+ large T-cell lymphoma (TCL) that comprises ~2% of all adult non-Hodgkin lymphomas. Based on the presence/absence of the rearrangement and expression of anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK), ALCL is divided into ALK+ and ALK-, and both differ clinically and prognostically. This review focuses on the historical points, clinical features, histopathology, differential diagnosis, and relevant cytogenetic and molecular alterations of ALK- ALCL and its subtypes: systemic, primary cutaneous (pc-ALCL), and breast implant-associated (BIA-ALCL). Recent studies have identified recurrent genetic alterations in this TCL. In systemic ALK- ALCL, rearrangements in DUSP22 and TP63 are detected in 30% and 8% of cases, respectively, while the remaining cases are negative for these rearrangements. A similar distribution of these rearrangements is seen in pc-ALCL, whereas none have been detected in BIA-ALCL. Additionally, systemic ALK- ALCL—apart from DUSP22-rearranged cases—harbors JAK1 and/or STAT3 mutations that result in the activation of the JAK/STAT signaling pathway. The JAK1/3 and STAT3 mutations have also been identified in BIA-ALCL but not in pc-ALCL. Although the pathogenesis of these alterations is not fully understood, most of them have prognostic value and open the door to the use of potential targeted therapies for this subtype of TCL.

Breast implant-associated EBV-positive diffuse large B-cell lymphoma: Two case reports and literature review

Lymphomas associated with breast implants are mostly of the T-cell type. They are predominantly anaplastic lymphoma kinase-negative anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALK-negative ALCL) characterized by CD30 positivity universally. Whilst the majority of primary breast lymphomas occurring in the absence of breast implants are of B-cell origin, there are few cases of implant-associated B-cell lymphomas reported to date in the literature, a subset of which are diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL). Given the rarity of this entity, we describe two cases of breast implant-associated DLBCL. Both patients developed Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV)-positive large cell lymphoma of B-cell origin confined to the implant capsule with no evidence of systemic lymphoma. Considering the association with EBV, the activated B-cell phenotype and the presumed chronic inflammatory environment associated with the implant capsule, these might represent forms of DLBCL associated with chronic inflammation (DLBCL-CI) or fibrin-associated DLBCL (FA-DLBCL). Treatment included implant removal with total capsulectomy, and for one of the cases adjuvant systemic chemotherapy. Recognizing this rare type of breast implant-associated B-cell lymphoma could improve our understanding of this entity and hence develop appropriate management strategies.