Breast Implants Possible Etiology of Epithelioid Hemangioendothelioma

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Title: Breast Implants as a Possible Etiology of Epithelioid Hemangioendothelioma and Successful Therapy with Interferon-a2.

Authors: Marsh, de Wilton

, ann Hermione1

, 2

Liu, Chen1

Source: Breast Journal; Jul2005, Vol. 11 Issue 4, p257, 5p

Document Type: Article

Abstract: Epithelioid hemangioendothelioma is a rare vascular tumor with unpredictable behavior. It often presents as liver or lung nodules and is refractory to conventional chemotherapy. Surgical resection and/or liver transplantation have been the mainstay of therapy, but the results are mixed and unsatisfactory.

Although the etiology of this malignancy is unknown, an increased incidence in women has been noted, and an association with exposure to vinyl chloride is emerging as a possible risk factor.

This review proposes polyurethane/silicone breast implants as a potential cause of the condition and highlights the dramatic response to interferon (IFN)-a in a woman, so exposed, with widespread disease in the liver and lungs. The implications for other women who have had this type of implant could be significant, and the early use of IFN-a may be optimal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Author Affiliations: 1*University of Florida College of Medicine and

2University of Florida Shands Cancer Center, Gainesville, Florida

ISSN: 1075-122X

DOI: 10.1111/j.1075-122X.2005.21663.x

Accession Number: 17428639