How is breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma diagnosed (BIA-ALCL)?

How is breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma diagnosed (BIA-ALCL)?

Women who have received breast implants should report any new changes in the size or appearance of their breasts to their doctor and schedule a physical examination. Routine mammograms or breast X-rays will not detect this type of lymphoma. If your doctor suspects you might have breast implant-associated lymphoma, he or she may schedule diagnostic procedures that might include one or more of the following:

• Ultrasound or magnetic resonance imaging: Diagnostic imaging tests are performed to detect any fluid accumulation or lumps in the breast or swelling of lymph nodes.
• Needle biopsy: If imaging tests show there is a mass or excess fluid, a fine needle biopsy will be performed. During the procedure, a small amount of fluid is withdrawn from the breast with a needle. The sample is then sent to a lab for further testing.
• CD30 immune staining: A laboratory test is performed on the fluid that was obtained to detect the presence of CD30, a substance that occurs when T-cell lymphocytes are activated. If CD30 is present, it indicates that BIA-ALCL cannot be ruled out and further tests are required.