Can a Ruptured Silicone Breast Implant Cause a High White Cell Count?

Question

I got implants in 83, for several months I have been having a burning pain in my breast, the shape has not changed at all. For years I have always had a very high white cell count and they have said I have everything from Fibromyalgia to Loin Pain hematuria syndrome but could never pin point any infection, or any other reason for my white cell count to be high for so long. I have a mamogram scheduled next week to see if there is a rupture. could this cause the high white cell count?

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Although I do not have any personal experience with patient's with ruptured silicone gel implants and their white blood cell counts, I think it is conceivable that a ruptured silicone gel implant can be a source of inflammation and therefore cause an elevated white blood cell count.  I would however rule out other sources before assuming that they ruptured silicone gel breast implant is the cause.

	 Keep in mind, that a mammogram may not be conclusive in diagnosing a ruptured silicone gel breast implant; an MRI study may be necessary.

	 Best wishes.

Armin Moshyedi, MD · Answer

Ruptured silicone gel breast implants are not known to cause elevated white blood cell counts. A mammogram is a good idea for your burning breast pain, but an MRI is the best study for detecting a gel leak. After 29 years, your implants have probably leaked, but you should have the burning pain in your breast completely evaluated anyway. Talk to your plastic surgeon about all these issues.

Can a Ruptured Silicone Breast Implant Cause a High White Cell Count?

Answers (2)