Do Breast Implants Increase Immunosurveillance to Breast Cancer
There is a hypothesis that women with breast implants may have increased immunosurveillance, through antibodies or similar effect, against breast cancer. This study published in the Aesthetic Surgery Journal examined the potential protective effects of breast implants against breast cancer. Women with implants (implants-exposed IE) and women without a history of breast implants (implant-naive IN) were studied. Serum from the IE and IN groups were incubated with cancer cell lines across high and low antibody levels. The results were striking and hinted that implant-antibodies may have some protective immunosurveillance effect: “Peripheral serum from IE women decreased breast cancer cell viability compared with IN women, even when matched for the same antibody levels. Antibody neutralization reversed differences. This suggests implant exposure altered antibody function or other serum components. These findings support the hypothesis that the inflammatory response to breast implants may increase breast cancer immunosurveillance, although significantly more work is needed to confirm a mechanism.'
Practically speaking, this study lends credence to the longstanding thought that breast implants may increase an immuoprotective layer to fight against breast cancer development; but this study result should not be oversimplified. Women with breast implants do develop breast cancer and mammograms, self-checks, and follow up of suspicious nodules should be paramount. Close follow up and screening is an important part of an adult woman’s medical responsibilities.
If you have new or old breast implants, especially if you suspect implant rupture; you should seek consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon. Dr. Raffy Karamanoukian is a specialist in breast implant management and surgery in Los Angeles.
Raffy Karamanoukian, MD FACS
Breast implants and breast cancer
www.karesurgery.com
Los Angeles
(310) 998-5533
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