Breast implants are one of the most popular elective surgeries throughout the world. Although breast implants have been around for several decades, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has recently identified a possible linkage between these medical devices and anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL). This condition is categorized as an uncommon type of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. The FDA first identified the potential connection in 2011.
Now, in 2017, the FDA has indicated that it has collected additional evidence regarding this linkage. When it first started its investigation six years ago, the FDA was only able to identify a few cases involving the development of the disease in relationship to breast implants. This made it more difficult to identify the factors that would contribute to the disease’s onset. The agency prepared a report detailing its understanding of the potential linkage and calling for the assessment of additional information and identification of additional cases.
In partnership with the World Health Organization, the FDA has now obtained additional information and data regarding the potential link between ALCL and breast implants. The World Health Organization is an international agency dedicated to improving human health throughout the world, particularly when it comes to combating diseases. The FDA’s latest announcement describes ALCL as a rare T-cell lymphoma that may develop after an individual receives breast implants.
The agency did indicate that it is still unable to identify the specific number of cases involving ALCL and breast implants, due in large part to the lack of thorough and consistent reporting throughout the world. Despite this continued gap in data, the FDA was able to suggest that the development of ALCL appears to be more common when the breast implants have a textured surface, as opposed to a smooth surface. The FDA will continue to collect data and information regarding this condition to further assess its dangers and characteristics.
The FDA also described some of its conclusions regarding the disease’s characteristics and disease treatment recommendations in its latest announcement. First, the Plastic Surgery Foundation and other cancer-related networks have provided physicians with information to help them learn about ALCL and identify it as early as possible in its development. Health agencies in other countries like Australia have conducted in-depth analyses of confirmed cases of ALCL. According to an Australian health agency, the potential risk of developing ALCL after receiving breast implants is somewhere between 1-in-1,000 and 1-in-10,000.
If you believe that you have developed ALCL after receiving breast implants, the dedicated, compassionate, and seasoned breast implant defect lawyers at Moll Law Group are standing by to assist you. Facing a severe and potentially life-threatening disease is stressful enough for a victim and his or her family. Based in Chicago and proudly serving clients throughout the U.S., including in Florida, New York, and California, we can guide you through every step of the process, including gathering evidence, reviewing medical records, contacting expert witnesses, and negotiating with insurance companies. To schedule your free online consultation, call us now at 312-462-1700 or contact us online to get started.
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