Abstract

Resolution of Psoriatic Arthritis After Breast Implant Removal

Author(s): Sathvik Saineni1,2*, Ariail Schmitz1,2, Shazia Beg2, Neha Bhanusali2 and Maria Farooq2

Breast Implant Illness (BII) is a complex condition characterized by various systemic symptoms, often linked to autoimmune responses. This case report presents a unique instance of new-onset psoriatic arthritis (PsA) in a 43-year-old woman with a history of autoimmune disorders, which resolved entirely following the removal of her breast implants. The patient’s PsA symptoms, including joint pain, onycholysis, and fatigue, manifested 3-4 months after undergoing saline breast implantation. Despite the use of multiple disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), her symptoms persisted until the breast implants were removed, after which she experienced complete resolution, obviating the need for further biologic therapy. The precise mechanisms linking BII to autoimmune disorders are not well understood, but chronic inflammation triggered by breast implants as foreign bodies, silicone and platinum leaching, and the formation of biofilms have been proposed as potential contributors. This case is particularly noteworthy as the first documented instance of new-onset PsA directly associated with breast implants. While previous studies have established connections between breast implants and other autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus, this case broadens the scope of autoimmune manifestations potentially triggered by BII. Given the temporal relationship between implant placement and disease onset, clinicians should consider BII as a differential diagnosis in patients presenting with new-onset or unexplained autoimmune conditions, particularly when traditional therapies fail. The complete resolution of PsA symptoms following implant removal in this case underscores the importance of considering environmental factors in the management of autoimmune diseases. Furthermore, it suggests that breast implant removal may serve as a therapeutic option for select patients with autoimmune conditions linked to BII. This case highlights the need for further research to elucidate the mechanisms underlying the association between breast implants and autoimmune disorders, as well as to identify appropriate therapeutic strategies for affected patients.