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Doctors explain recall for breast implants linked to cancer

At least 12 deaths have been linked to textured implants made by Allergan.

Two Arkansas cancer doctors are applauding the move by breast implant maker Allergan to voluntarily recall certain textured products that show a growing link to a rare form of lymphoma.

"Women need to know this is not breast cancer," said Dr. Peter Emanuel, director of oncology services for CHI St. Vincent in Little Rock. "This is lymphoma. This is a blood cancer."

And that's an important distinction that women with the textured implants need to know in the wake of the recall.

"There are 573 cases reported across the world, and more than 200 cases within the U.S. itself," said Dr. Appala Naidu Sasapu, in the hematology/oncology department at UAMS. "Some we don't know the type of implant, but there are no cases involving smooth implants."

The doctors advise women with the textured products to be diligent in doing self-exams, feeling for more than lumps in their tissue.

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"They certainly need to be aware of different breast symptoms because it could be the development of the lymphoma around the breast," said Dr. Emanuel. "Because this is a blood cancer, if it's not caught early it can spread to other parts of the body."

"They will have some clues," said Dr. Sasapu. "There could be some swelling in the breast, maybe there's some fluid collection next to the implant; breast pain or redness."

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He recommends going back to the plastic surgeon who placed the implants if these symptoms crop up or if you have worries.

"It doesn't mean they have to rush out and get removed immediately," said Dr. Emanuel. "But they certainly need to be vigilant and have things monitored."

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