A rare case: synchronous ipsilateral breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma and invasive ductal carcinoma

A 78-year-old female with a history of cosmetic breast implants presented with unilateral breast enlargement and was subsequently diagnosed with stage IA breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL) as well as stage IB ipsilateral synchronous invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC). Her assessment included bilateral breast ultrasounds,mammograms and MRIs with right-sided fine needle aspiration of peri-implant fluid, core biopsy of right breast mass and a whole-body positron emission tomography scan. She was surgically treated with bilateral capsulectomy, implant removal and mastectomy. No adjuvant treatment was required for the BIA-ALCL. The IDC required adjuvant chemotherapy, radiotherapy and endocrine therapy. This rare case highlights the paramount importance of thorough evaluation of suspected BIA-ALCL patients for synchronous breast pathologies. We conclude with a concise summary of the salient points on evaluation and management of BIA-ALCL for surgeons.