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Like all cancers, breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL) is easiest to treat when caught early.

The symptoms of BIA-ALCL often are the same as more common diseases of the breast, which can make ALCL hard to diagnose. Because it is so rare, it can be hard to diagnose even under a microscope. It is important to be diagnosed by a team that has experience treating this disease.

If you have symptoms that may signal BIA-ALCL, your doctor will examine you and ask you questions about your health and lifestyle. You will also be asked about breast implants and other breast surgeries.

One or more of the following tests may be used to find out if you have BIA-ALCL. They can also help doctors monitor how the cancer is responding to treatment.

Biopsy: A biopsy is the only way to definitively diagnose BIA-ALCL. During a biopsy, a small tissue sample is removed and examined under a microscope for cancer cells. Depending on tumor location, some biopsies can be done on an outpatient basis with only local anesthesia. Other times patients must undergo a surgical biopsy under general anesthesia.

Imaging exams: Imaging exams are used to look for cancer inside the body. They can help locate tumors and track how the body responds to treatment. There are many types of imaging exams. The ones used for BIA-ALCL include:

• Mammogram
• Ultrasound
• MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) scans
• CAT (computed axial tomography) scans or PET-CT (positron emission tomography-computed axial tomography) scans

Learn more about imaging exams.

Blood and urine tests: These tests can help monitor the cancer and the patient¡¯s overall health during treatment.

Molecular diagnosis: Different cancers have different features on the molecular level. A molecular diagnosis identifies the features that can impact treatment. This information helps doctors create the most effective treatment plan for each patient.

Genetic testing: Some genetic mutations can increase the risk of developing certain diseases. BIA-ALCL patients may undergo genetic testing to help doctors better understand their cancer.