How is breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL) treated?
How is breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL) treated?
If diagnostic tests confirm the presence of BIA-ALCL, the patient will be referred to an oncologist (specialist in treating cancer). The oncologist will determine the stage of the disease and recommend a treatment plan. Treatment will depend on the type and stage of the disease, the general health of the patient, her age, and other factors.
- Surgery: In most cases, surgical removal of the implant and the fibrous capsule around it (capsulectomy) is effective for treating the disease. Removal of some lymph nodes may also be necessary if they contain cancer cells.
- Chemotherapy: In rare cases where the cancer is more advanced or aggressive, patients may need to undergo chemotherapy in addition to surgery.