What are the risk factors for breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL)?
What are the risk factors for breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL)?
- The exact cause of BIA-ALCL is not known, but risks seem to increase for implants with textured surfaces. It does not seem to matter if the implants are filled with silicone or saline.
- Textured implants may cause more inflammation than smooth implants. Possible contributing factors include reactions to implant particles, long-term allergies, genetic factors, or reactions to bacteria that grow on the implant’s surface. There seems to be no difference in the risk of BIA-ALCL among women who receive implants for breast augmentation or for breast reconstructive surgery.