Rare cancer linked with textured implants under reported

A rare cancer in patients with breast implants may be on the rise, but not all patients and physicians may be aware of the risks, according to a group of Penn State College of Medicine researchers.

Breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (or BIA-ALCL) is a rare peripheral T-cell lymphoma that may develop in patients with breast implants. The researchers said the cancer is likely underreported, and although it appears to be linked with a certain type of implant, more research is needed to identify the specific cause. The results were published in a research review in JAMA Surgery last month.