Breast Implant Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA-ALCL). Information for patients, public and healthcare professionals

On the 1st of November 2021, the MHRA issued up to date guidance on Breast Implant Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA-ALCL). The guidance contains information for patients and health care professionals including how to report new cases. Up to December 2020, the UK had 83 confirmed cases of BIA-ALCL giving a current estimate of incidence of 1/ 15000 implants sold. The MHRA stopped issuing device alerts in September 2020, which means that anyone wishing to receive device alerts must subscribe to receive National Patient Safety Alerts or device safety alerts (subscription link in guidance document). Lastly, the guidance gives information about the independent MHRA Expert Advisory Group; the Plastic, reconstructive and aesthetic surgery expert advisory group (PRASEAG), on which the ABS is represented, as well as links to international regulatory agency decisions related to BIA-ALCL.

Classifications: Breast & Oncoplastic Surgery

Keywords: ALCL/ BIA ALCL Cosmetic Surgery Breast implants