Columbian Study Links Other Breast Implants To BIA-ALCL

Columbian Study Links Other Breast Implants To BIA-ALCL

Introduction

Last month, Columbian researchers published a study in the medical journal Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery-Global Open (PRS) stating that brands other than Allergan and Mentor were found to be associated with breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL).

According to the study, the researchers found 18 cases of BIA-ALCL in Columbia between 2011 and 2019. Out of these cases, seven were linked to Allergan implants, and three were linked to Mentor implants, both accounting for just above 55%. Additionally, Silimed Polyurethane implants were linked in two cases, and one each for implants manufactured by Eurosilicone, Nagor, Orion, and Poly Implant Prothèse (PIP).

The researchers also noted that several cases were identified in the late stages of development, resulting in chemotherapy, which could have been avoided simply by removing the implants and the surrounding fluid, if detected early. Out of the 18 cases, one died, and another developed bone marrow problems, requiring a bone marrow transplant. 92.3% of cases reached disease-free survival after about 31 months of follow-up, as per the study.

Last month, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) released a report indicating that the number of BIA-ALCL cases increased by nearly 28% in the second half of last year. The FDA, in its report, mentioned that most of the identified cases are specifically linked to the textured design of certain Allergan implants.

The July 2019 forced recall by Allergan has resulted in a rise in the number of breast implant lawsuits, each claiming that the textured design was unreasonably dangerous and defective. Currently, Allergan faces at least 150 product liability lawsuits and class action lawsuits over breast implant cancer problems. Mentor is also facing a couple of cases, and apart from these two manufacturers, none of the others are facing any litigation.