Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma in Australia: A Longitudinal Study of Implant and Other Related Risk Factors

Protocol for single-arm clinical trial evaluating medical grade polycaprolactone breast scaffold implantation with autologous fat grafting for breast implant revision and congenital defect correction surgery

INTRODUCTION

Revision surgery following primary breast augmentation is common due to well-reported long-term limitations of permanent silicone implants. There are limited options for revision breast augmentation which avoids using silicone implants. Scaffold-guided breast tissue engineering (SGBTE) is a novel technique which uses breast scaffolds additively manufactured from medical grade polycaprolactone (mPCL), which is implanted and filled with autologous fat graft. This approach avoids limitations as observed with permanent silicone breast implants as the scaffold is porous and biodegradable. This clinical trial evaluates the safety and efficacy of SGBTE.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

This study is an open, single-arm, monocentric, interventional, prospective clinical trial. The trial is being conducted at the Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital (RBWH) in Herston (Queensland, Australia) of the Metro North Health Service. The trial investigates 15-20 women who require breast implant surgery and/or congenital breast defect correction surgery, where a mPCL breast scaffold is implanted and filled with autologous fat graft. The primary endpoint is postoperative device safety by assessing the rate of adverse device effect rate. Secondary endpoints include general adverse event frequency and severity, number of revision surgeries, general surgical outcomes and complications, patient-reported outcomes and volume replacement outcomes.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

The RBWH Human Research Ethics Committee (EC00172) has approved this clinical trial (ethics approval: HREC/2021/QRBW/79906). Findings from this clinical trial will evaluate the safety and efficacy of implanting mPCL scaffolds filled with autologous fat graft. The results of this clinical trial will be published in a peer-reviewed journal and presented at scientific meetings.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

NCT05437757.

Estimating the Prevalence of Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large-Cell Lymphoma: A Systematic Review

BACKGROUND

Assessment of breast implant-associated anaplastic large-cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL) prevalence is challenged by a lack of population-level data for the prevalence of breast implants in the wider population. Absence of such data obscures the true prevalence of BIA-ALCL and hinders informed consent consultations. The authors performed a systematic review to synthesize data from published studies reporting BIA-ALCL cases in defined patient populations to better inform the evidence base.

METHODS

PubMed and Embase were searched to obtain studies reporting the prevalence of BIA-ALCL in defined patient cohorts with breast implants where case prevalence was calculable. Study characteristics, the number of BIA-ALCL cases, and total sample size were extracted and used to calculate the prevalence of BIA-ALCL per 100,000 implanted patients.

RESULTS

Of 1477 publications identified by the search, 38 studies incorporating 28 cohort and 6 registry studies satisfied the inclusion criteria, encompassing a total population sample of 17,038,371 patients and 1170 BIA-ALCL cases. The prevalence of BIA-ALCL was found to be 30.54 per 100,000 implanted patients with textured implants (1 case per 3274 implanted patients) and 6.70 per 100,000 implanted patients with implants of any type (1 case per 14,925 implanted patients).

CONCLUSIONS

By synthesizing the published literature, this work provides a determination of BIA-ALCL prevalence using study- and population-level data where the prevalence of breast implants is known. The accurate determination of BIA-ALCL prevalence is of fundamental importance for patients undergoing implant-related surgery to enable the provision of valid informed consent.

The Inflammatory Reaction to Silicone Implants: Polyurethane Foam Versus Nanotextured Surface-An Experimental Study in Rats

Background

The interaction between the surface of the implant and the human body results in a local and systemic inflammatory reaction that leads to the formation of a peri-implant capsule and entails complications. This study aimed to evaluate and compare the local and systemic inflammatory reactions of silicone implants coated with polyurethane foam and those with a nanotextured surface.

Methods

Using indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, the levels of interleukin-1 (IL-1), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) were measured in the serum and per-implant capsule of rats submitted to surgical placement of the 2 different types of implants. The statistical analysis was conducted within each group, comparing the parameters according to the times at which the rats were euthanized at 3 distinct durations of exposure (30, 60, and 90 d).

Results

The results show that at both 30 and 60 days, there was no significant increase in the levels of markers in either group; however, a change becomes evident at 90 days. The nanotextured surface showed a decreased production of inflammatory markers at 30 and 60 days as compared with the polyurethane group. Nevertheless, at 90 days, there is a marked increase in these markers observed in the nanotextured group and a decrease in the polyurethane group, yet without any statistical significance between either group at that time.

Conclusions

After a lapse of an extended period of time (90 d), nanotextured surface implants cause a local and systemic inflammatory reaction similar to those with a polyurethane foam surface.

The Risk of Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma; A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND

Breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL) is an emerging disorder that has gained global attention throughout the past era. The present meta-analysis was performed to retrieve the risk of BIA-ALCL from population-based epidemiological studies. Factors associated with BIA-ALCL were evaluated to identify patients at higher risk of BIA-ALCL.

METHODS

A systematic literature search was executed throughout 12 databases. All epidemiological studies encompassing patients with breast implants either for aesthetic or reconstructive purposes and reported the risk of BIA-ALCL were included. Studies reported the risk factors of BIA-ALCL were included.

RESULTS

The present meta-analysis included 17 articles, encompassing 525,475 patients with breast implants. There were 254 patients with BIA-ALCL with a mean duration to the diagnosis of BIA-ALCL of 13.16 years (95% CI 11.7-14.6, P < 0.001). There were 44 patients with textured breast implants and two with smooth implants. Patients with breast implants were 28.86 times more at high risk of BI-ALCL (95% CI 3.123-266.681). The risk ranged from 0 to 1 per 1000 cases with breast implants, with a similar risk among patients seeking aesthetic and reconstructive surgeries. The risk was 0 to 1 case per 1000 cases among patients with textured breast implants. There was a significant association between the history of breast cancer and BIA-ALCL (P = 0.0016).

CONCLUSION

This meta-analysis confirmed the association between breast implants and ALCL. There was a similar risk of BIA-ALCL among patients with aesthetic or reconstructive surgeries. Patients with a history of breast cancer were at higher risk of BIA-ALCL.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE III

This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .

Recurrence of breast cancer after reconstruction with macro-textured silicone breast implants: a retrospective cohort study

BACKGROUND

Recently, old concerns linking silicone breast implants (SBIs) with breast cancer have resurfaced. These concerns apply specifically to the risk of breast cancer recurrence in patients who received breast reconstructions with macro-textured SBIs. In this study, the authors investigated the effect of breast reconstruction with macro-textured SBIs on long-term oncologic outcomes of breast cancer patients.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The authors conducted a retrospective cohort study in two large cancer centres in the Netherlands. Patients who had been treated for primary breast cancer between 1 January 2000 and 31 December 2015 were included. Data on treatment and oncologic outcomes were obtained from prospectively maintained institutional and nationwide registries. Patient files were reviewed manually to complement missing information. Missing data were accounted for by multiple imputations by chained equations (MICE). Reconstruction with a macro-textured SBI was analysed as a time-dependent variable. The main outcomes of interest were locoregional recurrence-free survival (LRRFS) and distant metastasis-free survival (DMFS). Hazard ratios (HRs) were estimated using multivariable Cox proportional hazard models.

RESULTS

Of the 4695 women who were eligible for inclusion, 2393 had undergone mastectomy. Of these women, 1187 (25%) had received breast reconstruction with a macro-textured SBI. The mean follow-up time was 11.5 (SD, 5.0) years. Compared with women who had undergone a simple mastectomy or autologous breast reconstruction, women with an implant-based reconstruction did not differ significantly in LRRFS or DMFS after accounting for various confounding factors [HR 1.27 (95% CI 0.93-1.72) and HR 0.94 (95% CI 0.74-1.20), respectively]. Sensitivity analysis in complete cases of patients and various subgroup analyses yielded similar results.

CONCLUSION

Reassuringly, in this multi-centre cohort study no difference was found in long-term oncologic outcomes between women who had received breast reconstruction with a macro-textured SBI and women who had undergone a simple mastectomy or autologous breast reconstruction.

Long-term Insights: Histopathological Assessment of Polyurethane Implant Capsules Over 24 Years

BACKGROUND

Polyurethane (PU)-coated breast implants are known for their strong integration into breast tissue and the formation of capsules around them. However, capsular contracture can pose both aesthetic and clinical challenges.

OBJECTIVES

The objectives of this study were to analyze the biological and morphological characteristics of the capsular tissue surrounding PU-coated implants, irrespective of their contracture status, and to assess their potential suitability as a flap in revisional breast surgery for capsular contracture.

METHODS

A total of 23 tissue samples were harvested from the capsules surrounding PU-coated breast implants in 12 female patients during replacement or revisional surgery. We evaluated collagen abundance, cellular and vascular density, inflammation, collagen band types and alignment, synovial metaplasia, capsule thickness, and the expression of inflammatory biomarkers and myofibroblasts with immunohistochemical techniques. Scanning electron microscopy was employed to assess implant surface characteristics over time.

RESULTS

We found a significant association of capsule contraction with longer implantation durations and greater implant surface roughness (P = .018 and P = .033, respectively). Synovial metaplasia was significantly more frequent in noncontracted capsules (P = .0049). Both capsule types consisted of paucicellular, type I collagen-rich compact fibrous tissue with low vascularization. There was a marked reduction in inflammatory cells within the foreign body granuloma. The expression of inflammatory biomarkers in the capsular tissue was negligible.

CONCLUSIONS

Given the reduced levels of inflammatory and vascular components within the dense, fibrous capsular tissue, we consider them to be viable alternatives for capsular flaps in revisional surgery. This strategy has the potential to mimic the reconstruction achieved with acellular dermal matrix.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 4

Breast implant surface topography triggers a chronic-like inflammatory response

Breast implants are extensively employed for both reconstructive and esthetic purposes. However, the safety of breast implants with textured surfaces has been questioned, owing to a potential correlation with anaplastic large-cell lymphoma and the recurrence of breast cancer. This study investigates the immune response elicited by different prosthetic surfaces, focusing on the comparison between macrotextured and microtextured breast implants. Through the analysis of intraoperatively harvested periprosthetic fluids and cell culture experiments on surface replicas, we demonstrate that macrotextured surfaces elicit a more pronounced chronic-like activation of leucocytes and an increased release of inflammatory cytokines, in contrast to microtextured surfaces. In addition, in vitro fluorescent imaging of leucocytes revealed an accumulation of lymphocytes within the cavities of the macrotextured surfaces, indicating that the physical entrapment of these cells may contribute to their activation. These findings suggest that the topography of implant surfaces plays a significant role in promoting a chronic-like inflammatory environment, which could be a contributing factor in the development of lymphomas associated with a wide range of implantable devices.

One-Stage Implant-Based Breast Reconstruction With Polyurethane-Coated Device: Standardized Assessment of Outcomes

BACKGROUND

Nipple-sparing mastectomies (NSMs) and implant-based breast reconstructions have evolved from 2-stage reconstructions with tissue expansion and implant exchange to direct-to-implant procedures. In this study, we tested safety and efficacy of polyurethane-based implants according to standard assessment tools.

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to test safety and feasibility of polyurethane-coated implants with standardized assessment employing internationally acknowledged evaluation criteria.

METHODS

Cases of NSMs followed by breast reconstruction in 1 stage with immediate prepectoral polyurethane-coated implant placement were retrospectively reviewed. Preoperative characteristics of the population have been collected. Adherence to quality assurance criteria of the Association of Breast Surgery-British Association of Plastic Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons was verified. Complications were assessed with the Clavien Dindo classification, modified for the breast. Rippling, implant rotation, and malposition were also evaluated.

RESULTS

Sixty-three consecutive patients underwent 74 NSMs and immediate breast reconstruction with micro polyurethane foam-coated anatomic implants. In 5 cases we had unplanned readmissions with return to the operating room under general anesthesia (6.7%) and implant loss within 3 months from breast reconstruction (5 implants, 6.7%). Postoperative complications according to Clavien Dindo were grade 1 in 6 cases (8.1%), grade 2 in 3 cases (4%), and 3b in 5 cases (6.7%).

CONCLUSIONS

Polyurethane-coated implants may prevent rotation and malposition and capsular contracture in the short term. Unplanned readmission rates and implant loss rates in the short term may be slightly higher.See the abstract translated into Hindi, Portuguese, Korean, German, Italian, Arabic, Chinese, and Taiwanese online here: https://doi.org/10.1093/asj/sjad301.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 4

BIA-ALCL in patients with genetic predisposition for breast cancer: our experience and a review of the literature

Breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL) is an emerging non-Hodgkin's lymphoma that occurs exclusively in patients with breast implants. The estimated risk of developing BIA-ALCL from exposure to breast implants is largely based on approximations about patients at risk. There is a growing body of evidence regarding the presence of specific germline mutations in patients developing BIA-ALCL, rising interest regarding possible markers of genetic predisposition to this type of lymphoma. The present paper focuses attention on BIA-ALCL in women with a genetic predisposition for breast cancer. We report our experience at the European Institute of Oncology, Milan, Italy, describing a case of BIA-ALCL in a BRCA1 mutation carrier who developed BIA-ALCL 5 years after implant-based post mastectomy reconstruction. She was treated successfully with an en-bloc capsulectomy. Additionally, we review the available literature on inherited genetic factors predisposing to the development of BIA-ALCL. In patients with genetic predisposition to breast cancer (mainly TP53 and BRCA1/2 germline mutations), BIA-ALCL prevalence seems to be higher and time to onset appears to be shorter in comparison to the general population. These high-risk patients are already included in close follow-up programs allowing the diagnosis of early-stage BIA-ALCL. For this reason, we do not believe that a different approach should be followed for postoperative surveillance.

Risk of Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma in Patients with Textured Tissue Expanders

BACKGROUND

The association between textured implants and breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL) is well established, but the risk of BIA-ALCL in patients with transient exposure to a textured tissue expander (TE) is not as well documented. The aim of this study was to assess the incidence and risk of BIA-ALCL in patients with temporary exposure to a textured TE with subsequent smooth implant placement.

METHODS

This single-institution retrospective cohort study included all female patients who underwent two-stage breast reconstruction with placement of a textured TE from 1995 to 2016 with subsequent exchange to a smooth permanent implant. Primary outcome of interest was development of BIA-ALCL. Patients with exposure to textured implants were excluded. Follow-up was determined by last documented visit. The authors calculated summary statistics for exposure time and follow-up intervals.

RESULTS

Overall, 3310 patients had temporary exposure to a textured TE with exchange to a smooth implant, totaling 5201 textured TEs. Average textured TE exposure time was 6.7 months (median, 5.8 months). Average follow-up was 6.8 years (median, 6.3 years), ranging from 3.7 months to 18 years. No cases of BIA-ALCL were identified.

CONCLUSIONS

As no cases of BIA-ALCL were identified, the risk of BIA-ALCL with short exposure to textured TEs is likely lower than the risk from exposure to permanent textured implants. Although longer follow-up is needed, these results can help counsel patients with previous exposure to textured TEs who are concerned about their risk of BIA-ALCL and can contribute to discussions on potential continued utility of textured TEs.

CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Risk, IV.

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.

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.

2022 Practice Recommendation Updates From the World Consensus Conference on BIA-ALCL

BACKGROUND

Laboratory and clinical research on breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL) is rapidly evolving. Changes in standard of care and insights into best practice were recently presented at the 3rd World Consensus Conference on BIA-ALCL.

OBJECTIVES

The authors sought to provide practice recommendations from a consensus of experts, supplemented with a literature review regarding epidemiology, etiology, pathogenesis, diagnosis, treatment, socio-psychological aspects, and international authority guidance.

METHODS

A literature search of all manuscripts between 1997 and August 2021 for the above areas of BIA-ALCL was conducted with the PubMed database. Manuscripts in different languages, on non-human subjects, and/or discussing conditions separate from BIA-ALCL were excluded. The study was conducted employing the Delphi process, gathering 18 experts panelists and utilizing email-based questionnaires to record the level of agreement with each statement by applying a 5-point Likert Scale. Median response, interquartile range, and comments were employed to accept, reject, or revise each statement.

RESULTS

The literature search initially yielded 764 manuscripts, of which 405 were discarded. From the remaining 359, only 218 were included in the review and utilized to prepare 36 statements subdivided into 5 sections. After 1 round, panelists agreed on all criteria.

CONCLUSIONS

BIA-ALCL is uncommon and still largely underreported. Mandatory implant registries and actions by regulatory authorities are needed to better understand disease epidemiology and address initial lymphomagenesis and progression. Deviation from current diagnosis and treatment protocols can lead to disease recurrence, and research on breast implant risk factors provide insight to etiology.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 4

Toolkit for the management of breast implants and the importance of Informed educated consent

Breast implants have had a long and chequered history of periodic regulatory activity and class actions and are associated with significant medium and long term health risks, including the development breast implant associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL).1–3. NSW Health through the Agency of Clinical Innovation has just released a toolkit for the management of breast implants.4 These are the result of collaborative clinical consensus across leaders in plastic and reconstructive surgery, breast surgery and radiology with support from the Surgical Services Taskforce and evidence directorate of the agency. Input was also sought from health consumers to ensure that the language and structure of the information was both comprehensive and accessible to women who were either considering either cosmetic augmentation or reconstruction and/or have breast implants in place.

Current Progress in Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma

Breast implant-associated anaplastic large-cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL) is an uncommon type of T-cell lymphoma. Although with a low incidence, the epidemiological data raised the biosafety and health concerns of breast reconstruction and breast augmentation for BIA-ALCL. Emerging evidence confirms that genetic features, bacterial contamination, chronic inflammation, and textured breast implant are the relevant factors leading to the development of BIA-ALCL. Almost all reported cases with a medical history involve breast implants with a textured surface, which reflects the role of implant surface characteristics in BIA-ALCL. With this review, we expect to highlight the most significant features on etiology, pathogenesis, diagnosis, and therapy of BIA-ALCL, as well as we review the physical characteristics of breast implants and their potential pathogenic effect and hopefully provide a foundation for optimal choice of type of implant with minimal morbidity.

Is Breast Implant Associated-Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma linked to textured implants?

Breast Implant Associated-Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA-ALCL) is a distinctive type of T-cell lymphoma arising around breast implants. We performed a review of the existing literature with the aim of providing an evidence-based overview of the available data on BIA-ALCL with a standardized evaluation of the quality of the studies and investigating the potential association between textured breast implants and BIA-ALCL.We analyzed the literature reporting estimates of relative or absolute risks of BIA-ALCL in case-control, cohort studies and case series studies. The total number of BIA-ALCL cases reported in literature is very low. Furthermore, most of the reported cases have been reported in case-control studies or case series. This means that our knowledge is based on a low level of evidence. Moreover, low-medium quality scores were observed in the included case series studies. In relation to the rarity of the event, better information could only derived by international cooperation to pool together data deriving from all over the world, with the clear need of better reporting patients and implant characteristics in case series and when adding data to public registries. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE IV: This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .

Implant deformity on screening mammography, an unusual presentation of breast implant associated lymphoma

Breast implant associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL) is a rare condition related to textured breast implants. Recognition of characteristic imaging and pathological features are important, given the absence of symptoms can delay diagnosis, as illustrated by this case. Late-onset peri-implant effusion is commonly encountered whilst an associated mass or lymphadenopathy are rare. Clinical and radiological suspicion enables dedicated pathology work-up for diagnosis. Ultrasound is vital for initial work-up whilst MRI and PET-CT assist in staging. Surgical explantation is followed by adjuvant chemo-radiotherapy according to disease extent.

New Data on the Epidemiology of Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to illustrate the epidemiological situation of breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL) by focusing on the changes published after 2019 and particularly the new approaches of cosmetic and reconstructive breast surgery.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Article search was performed from January 2019 to date using the PubMed database. Fourteen articles were included in the qualitative evaluation of international data. Moreover, the latest reports regarding the total number of BIA-ALCL cases and number of deaths were identified.

RESULTS

Estimates of the risk and incidence have increased significantly recently, affecting 1 in every 2,969 women with breast implants and 1 in 355 patients with textured implants after breast reconstruction. The average exposure time to diagnosis was 8 (range: 0-34) years. Approximately 80% of BIA-ALCL cases were diagnosed at IA-IIA stages, for which the treatment was breast implant removal, full capsulectomy, and excision of all suspected lymph nodes. Globally, at least 949 cases were reported to date.

CONCLUSION

At present, BIA-ALCL is an emerging pathology of interest. Data collection initiated since 2016 through different case registration databases is essential to ensure surveillance and to continue to increase the number of studies on this recently discovered pathology.

An Update on the Current Genomic Landscape of Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma

Simple Summary

Breast implant-associated lymphoma is a unique entity that arises in the setting of breast prostheses due to a complex interplay of external and internal factors. Understanding of the mechanisms of pathogenesis is yet to be fully elucidated but recurrent mutations in signalling pathways, tumour suppressors and epigenetic regulators have been reported. This article summarises the key studies to date that have described these genetic aberrancies, which have provided an insight into potential pathways to lymphogenesis.

Abstract

Breast implant-associated lymphoma (BIA-ALCL) is a rare subtype of anaplastic large-cell lymphoma associated with breast prostheses. Most patients present with a localised periprosthetic effusion and are managed with removal of the implant and surrounding capsule. Less commonly, the lymphoma can form a mass associated with the capsule and rarely can present with disseminated disease. Recent series characterising the genomic landscape of BIA-ALCL have led to insights into the mechanisms of lymphomagenesis. Constitutive JAK/STAT pathway activation has emerged as a likely key component while, more recently, aberrancies in epigenetic regulators have been reported. This review describes the genomic characterisation reported to date and the insight these findings have provided into this rare entity.

Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA-ALCL): Review of Epidemiology and Prevalence Assessment in Europe

BACKGROUND

Breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL) epidemiologic studies focus on incidence and risk estimates.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to perform a thorough literature review, and to provide an accurate estimate of BIA-ALCL prevalence in Europe.

METHODS

We searched PubMed, Web of Science, SCOPUS, and Google Scholar databases to identify publications reporting BIA-ALCL epidemiology. Research was conducted between November 2019 and August 2020. European prevalence was assessed as the ratio between pathology-confirmed cases and breast implant-bearing individuals. The Committee on Device Safety and Development (CDSD) collected data from national plastic surgery societies, health authorities, and disease-specific registries to calculate the numerator. The denominator was estimated by combining European demographic data with scientific reports.

RESULTS

Our research identified 507 articles: 106 were excluded for not being relevant to BIA-ALCL. From the remaining 401 articles, we selected 35 that discussed epidemiology and 12 reviews. The CDSD reported 420 cases in Europe, with an overall prevalence of 1:13,745 cases in the 28 member states of the European Union (EU-28). Countries where specific measures have been implemented to tackle BIA-ALCL account for 61% of the EU-28 population and actively reported 382 cases with an overall prevalence of 1:9121.

CONCLUSION

Countries where specific measures have been implemented show a higher prevalence of BIA-ALCL compared with the European mean, suggesting that these countries have improved the detection of the condition and reduced underreporting, which affects the numerator value. Other nations should adopt projections based on these measures to avoid underestimating how widespread BIA-ALCL is.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 4

Reduced Remodeling Biomarkers Tissue Expression in Nanotextured Compared With Polyurethane Implants Capsules: A Study in Rats

BACKGROUND

In the biological response to biomaterials, the implant shell plays a key role in immune and inflammatory reactions. We hypothesized that the capsules formed around nanotextured implants exhibit an immunohistochemical behavior different to those formed around polyurethane implants.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to evaluate through immunohistochemistry markers the capsules formed around nanotextured and polyurethane implants.

METHODS

Sixty albino female Wistar rats were divided into 2 groups (nanotextured and polyurethane), with 30 animals in each group. A mini silicone implant was inserted on the back of the animals. After a predetermined period, the animals were killed, and the capsules formed around the implants were studied. The capsules in the 30-, 60-, and 90-day subgroups were analyzed via immunohistochemistry to detect markers for fibroblast α smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), transforming growth factor β (TGF-β), cluster of differentiation 34 (CD34), and CD68, via picrosirius staining to determine the density of type I and III collagen fibers and via hematoxylin and eosin staining to assess capsule thickness. A Wilcoxon-Mann-Whitney test was used to compare the groups, and a Kruskal-Wallis test was used to compare the subgroups.

RESULTS

Lower α-SMA, TGF-β, CD34 and CD68 immunoexpression was observed in the nanotextured 30- and 60-day subgroups than in the corresponding polyurethane subgroups. In the 90-day subgroup, more pronounced α-SMA and CD34 immunoexpression was observed in the nanotextured group; however, TGF-β and CD68 immunoexpression remained lower. The nanotextured implants showed reduced capsular thickness and greater formation of type I collagen in all the analyzed subgroups.

CONCLUSIONS

Nanotextured implants led to reduced immune and inflammatory reactions compared with polyurethane implants according to all analyzed variables.

The State of the Art about Etiopathogenetic Models on Breast Implant Associated-Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA-ALCL): A Narrative Review

BACKGROUND

Breast-implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma is a rare malignancy linked to texturized breast implants. Although many researchers focus on its etiopathogenesis, this topic is affected by a lack of evidence.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A literature review about BIA-ALCL was made.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS

Although the incidence is reported between 1:355-1:30,000, there is great attention to BIA-ALCL. The incidence is uncertain due to many reasons. It may well be lower, due to inclusion in multiple databases as pointed out by the FDA and undiagnosed cases. The role of chronic inflammation, bacterial contamination, and mechanical forces was discussed. Clarification is needed to understand the mechanisms underlying the progression of alterations and mutations for BIA-ALCL; new molecular analysis and pathogenetic models should be investigated.

UK Guidelines on the Diagnosis and Treatment of Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma on behalf of the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery Expert Advisory Group

Breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL) is an uncommon T-cell non-Hodgkin Lymphoma (NHL) associated with breast implants. Raising awareness of the possibility of BIA-ALCL in anyone with breast implants and new breast symptoms is crucial to early diagnosis. The tumour begins on the inner aspect of the peri-implant capsule causing an effusion, or less commonly a tissue mass to form within the capsule, which may spread locally or to more distant sites in the body. Diagnosis is usually made by cytological, immunohistochemical and immunophenotypic evaluation of the aspirated peri-implant fluid: pleomorphic lymphocytes are characteristically anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK)-negative and strongly positive for CD30. BIA-ALCL is indolent in most patients but can progress rapidly. Surgical removal of the implant with the intact surrounding capsule (total en-bloc capsulectomy) is usually curative. Late diagnosis may require more radical surgery and systemic therapies and although these are usually successful, poor outcomes and deaths have been reported. By adopting a structured approach, as suggested in these guidelines, early diagnosis and successful treatment will minimise the need for systemic treatments, reduce morbidity and the risk of poor outcomes.

Etiology of Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA-ALCL): Current Directions in Research

Simple Summary

The first report of breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL) was in 1997. Although BIA-ALCL develops around breast implants, it is considered a cancer of the immune system and not a cancer of the breast ducts or lobules. Nearly all confirmed cases to date have been associated with textured surface (versus smooth surface) breast implants. As physicians have become more aware of BIA-ALCL, so has the number of reported cases, although the number of cases remains low. In most instances, patients have an excellent prognosis following removal of the breast implant and its surrounding fibrous capsule. Many theories on factors that trigger the development of BIA-ALCL, such as the presence of bacteria, have been proposed. However, the sequence(s) of events that follow the initial triggering event(s) have not been fully determined. This article summarizes the current scientific knowledge on the development of BIA-ALCL.

Abstract

Breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL) is a CD30-positive, anaplastic lymphoma kinase-negative T-cell lymphoma. Where implant history is known, all confirmed cases to date have occurred in patients with exposure to textured implants. There is a spectrum of disease presentation, with the most common occurring as a seroma with an indolent course. A less common presentation occurs as locally advanced or, rarely, as metastatic disease. Here we review the immunological characteristics of BIA-ALCL and potential triggers leading to its development. BIA-ALCL occurs in an inflammatory microenvironment with significant lymphocyte and plasma cell infiltration and a prominent Th1/Th17 phenotype in advanced disease. Genetic lesions affecting the JAK/STAT signaling pathway are commonly present. Proposed triggers for the development of malignancy include mechanical friction, silicone implant shell particulates, silicone leachables, and bacteria. Of these, the bacterial hypothesis has received significant attention, supported by a plausible biologic model. In this model, bacteria form an adherent biofilm in the favorable environment of the textured implant surface, producing a bacterial load that elicits a chronic inflammatory response. Bacterial antigens, primarily of Gram-negative origin, may trigger innate immunity and induce T-cell proliferation with subsequent malignant transformation in genetically susceptible individuals. Although much remains to be elucidated regarding the multifactorial origins of BIA-ALCL, future research should focus on prevention and treatment strategies, recognizing susceptible populations, and whether decreasing the risk of BIA-ALCL is possible.

Breast Implants for Mammaplasty: An Umbrella Review of Meta-analyses of Multiple Complications

BACKGROUND

The association of breast implants and complications after mammaplasty has been extensively researched. The aim of this study is to summarize all available results in meta-analysis investigating the association between implants and the incidence of various complications.

METHODS

An umbrella review for breast implants and associated complications was performed by searching related reviews from electronic databases including Pubmed, Ovid and CINAHL. We collected and reviewed evidence across meta-analyses of observational and interventional studies of implants and any health outcome. The quality of the reviews was assessed using the AMSTAR tool (A measurement tool to assess systematic reviews).

RESULTS

The research included 92 meta-analyses of 609 studies concerning various areas. Capsular contracture was the most investigated outcome. Radiotherapy, human acellular dermal matrix application, direct-to-implant reconstruction, smooth implant, silicone-filled implant and periareolar incision were significantly associated with higher rates of some of the complications.

CONCLUSIONS

This umbrella review provides surgeons with summarized evidence of the association between the complications and implant-related factors in mammaplasty surgery to help surgeons make informed choices in the future.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE III

This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .