Questions about implant recall and BIA ALCL

THawk

Hello. I am asking about others with recalled implants. Has anyone been diagnosed with BIA ALCL from having a recalled implant? II have read the recent article, very helpful. It seems the statistics are not accurate with all the recent findings. My biggest question is how often is the fluid just inflammation, and not BIA ALCL? All the reading that I have done indicates that the testing procedure is unclear. Core needle biopsy seems to only be accurate 30% of the time, when lymphoma is usually in the capsule itself? This seems so new, and not known in the world of GP's or even some plastic surgeons. I had to tell my GP what test I needed. Even at the diagnostic centres, the radiologists suggest implant rupture instead of inflammation fluid. It all seems so skewed, and now that I am seeking help, I feel very much on my own.

I have one recalled Allergan textured implant (from a second surgery). My left breast ultrasound and mammogram show capsule contracture as well as fluid surrounding the implant. Doctor ordered a core needle, but the radiologist is unable to extract due to location and amount of fluid. So I am currently at a stand still as Covid has everything locked down. I just want both implants out at this point. Thank you for listening!

MinusTwo

THawk - there are a number of threads about these implants on the BCO boards. You should be able to find them by using the 'search' section on the left.

Note - the implants that are in peoples bodies are NOT recalled, only the implants that were on the shelves. Personally I opted to get an ULS and an MRI to confirm that I didn't have any problems. And I don't. I love my Allergan 410 implants and will not have them removed.

That said, it looks like your tests do show a potential problem. It could be just a rupture, however if it is cohesive gel, I'd think the residue would look different than saline fluid. You didn't say whether you are having any other symptoms. If not, hoping it it not something urgent since as you said, pretty much everything is on hold for Covid-19.

I would definitely try to get an appointment in the future with your plastic surgeon who did the implants. I think it's unlikely that a GP or PCP would have enough expertise to diagnose this. Or go to another PS to get a second opinion from docs who deal with implants all the time. Maybe even to one of the NCI locations. Good luck.

THawk

Minus Two,

Thank you for the reply. I have the cohesive gel Allergan textured in my left only. I have had capsule contracture for about 5 years post 2009 surgery, and recently developed a hot, itchy, burning and general discomfort. This led me to go get an ultrasound and mammogram at the beginning of March. I have an enlarged thyroid (only on the right side) and will go for an ultrasound on that on Tuesday. I have discomfort on my left side. My neck hurts, up into my ears, but not sure if this is just stress and or general tightness. We tend to live with pain, and dismiss as normal!? lol. I am waiting for my MRI appointment to be scheduled as well. I have chest tightness, but I also have asthma. Chest rays are clear. IDK, some days I think that I am just over reacting and some other people are telling me I have a ticking time bomb in my chest.

The problem for me is that because I can't get the needle biopsy, and a definite diagnosis, I am placed at the back of the line for "elective" explant surgery. Thinking it is going to be September before I can get this out.

Moderators

These are such difficult times, and we are so sorry that you are going through this!

MinusTwo

THawk - sorry for all the hassle. I do hope though that you are working with a breast surgeon or even more important, a plastic surgeon in conjunction with your MO. A GP really isn't going to cut it.

THawk

Thank you for this site. It helps to have support and a network of ladies in similar situations.