Updates on Studies Concerning Link Between Breast Cancer and Implants
In July 2019, pharmaceutical manufacturer Allergan ordered a recall of its BIOCELL textured breast implants after reports that the implants were linked to a serious cancer affecting hundreds of patients. Here, the pharmaceutical liability attorneys at Peter Angelos Law discuss recent updates to this serious event as well as your legal options if you have been impacted by BIOCELL products.
Allergan Pulled all BIOCELL Textured Breast Implants and Tissue Expanders Off the Market
As a response to the FDA’s request that BIOCELL textured breast implants be recalled due to the increased risk of developing cancer, pharmaceutical manufacturer Allergan removed all BIOCELL textured breast implants and tissue expanders from the market. The FDA request arose from Medical Device Reports (MDRs) that detailed an increased risk of cancer associated with BIOCELL textured breast implants. Specifically, a form of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma called breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL) has been associated with Allergan’s BIOCELL textured breast implants.
The decision by the FDA to request a recall of Allergan’s textured breast implants was inspired by a total of 573 cases of BIA-ALCL worldwide—out of these 573 cases, a concerning total of 481 patients had Allergan breast implants when they were diagnosed with BIA-ALCL.
BIA-ALCL is a Type of Life-Threatening Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma
While BIA-ALCL is associated with breast implants, specifically Allergan BIOCELL textured breast implants, it is not a form of breast cancer. Rather, it is a form of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma that is found in the scar tissue and fluid near the implant. In severe cases, this form of cancer can spread to other areas of the body.
Symptoms of BIA-ALCL include swelling or pain near the implant, as well as lumps near the affected area. Typically, BIA-ALCL is treated with surgery to remove the implant and tissue affected by cancer, and some patients also require further treatment including chemotherapy. While rare, BIA-ALCL is a serious and life-threatening form of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, and individuals who have received Allergan BIOCELL implants should discuss their unique situation with their medical health professional. While textured breast implants only account for 10% of all breast implants sold in the United States, the risk of developing cancer is still prevalent and individuals who have received textured breast implants should be proactive about checking for signs and symptoms of BIA-ALCL.
Allergan’s Recalled Products Include Natrelle Saline-Filled Breast Implants and Natrella Silicone-Filled Textured Breast Implants
As a result of the FDA’s request that Allergan’s textured breast implants be pulled from the market, Allergan has recalled a variety of their products. The list of recalled products includes Allergan Natrelle Saline-Filled Breast Implants, including styles 163, 168, 363 and 468; Allergan Natrelle Silicone-Filled Textured Breast Implants; and Natrelle 410 Highly Cohesive Anatomically Shaped Silicone Filled Breast Implants. The FDA has stated that individuals who received textured breast implants and have no symptoms do not need to have their implants removed, as the risk of developing BIA-ALCL is rare. However, it is recommended to consult a health professional, especially if you begin to experience any symptoms of BIA-ALCL.
Discuss Your Options with a Baltimore Pharmaceutical Liability Attorney at Peter Angelos Law
While rare, the form of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma called BIA-ALCL is severe and can be life-threatening. That is why it is imperative for patients who have received Allergan textured breast implants to discuss their case with a medical health professional. The team of pharmaceutical liability attorneys at The Law Offices of Peter Angelos Law is dedicated to serving individuals who are seriously impacted by major pharmaceutical companies who have the responsibility to ensure their products are safe for public use. If you or a loved one developed BIA-ALCL or another serious health condition as a result of receiving Allergan textured breast implants, discuss your rights with a pharmaceutical liability attorney at The Law Offices of Peter Angelos Law today.