Breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma presenting as a breast mass: A case report and literature review

INTRODUCTION: Breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL) is a rare neoplasm most frequently associated with textured implant placement. The classic presentation consists of a persistent periprosthetic seroma. Implant removal and individualized adjuvant treatment are potentially curative interventions. Most BIA-ALCL present with a seroma, not with a breast and/or axillary mass. Knowledge of this presentation and how to manage it allows an adequate diagnosis, and appropriate treatment with excellent results. PRESENTATION OF CASE: A 44-year-old woman presented with a 3-month history of a right breast mass located in the lower medial quadrant, with associated right axillary lymphadenopathy. Medical history was significant for a mastoplasty with textured implants 15 years before the onset of her symptoms. Imaging studies and histological analysis helped to confirm the diagnosis of BIA-ALCL. A bilateral capsulectomy was performed and adjuvant chemotherapy and immunotherapy were administered. With these interventions, the patient had complete resolution of her symptoms, good cosmetic results, and absence of tumor activity detectable by positron emission tomography with fluorodeoxyglucose (PET-CT FDG) at a 2.5-year follow-up. DISCUSSION: This case describes an atypical presentation of BIA-ALCL as a breast mass, as well as lymph node and bone marrow involvement. Knowledge of the different presentation modalities of this pathology is necessary for a correct diagnosis and treatment. Through a multidisciplinary approach, adequate treatment was given with excellent results. CONCLUSION: Anaplastic large cell lymphoma associated with breast implants is a clinicopathological entity still little known in some medical fields. A variety of presentations must be considered, and high clinical suspicion must be maintained in patients with a history of textured breast implant placement to optimize diagnosis and avoid delays in treatment.