Inflammatory Pathology and Mechanisms of Filamentous Fungal Infection in Breast Implants: A Commentary

Filamentous fungal infections of breast implants remain underrecognized compared with infections caused by Candida species and bacteria, despite their potential to induce significant inflammatory pathology. This commentary highlights the distinctive ability of filamentous fungal biofilms to penetrate deeply into the implant capsule, a feature that may contribute to distinct pathogenic behaviour compared with bacterial or yeast biofilms. We discuss how this invasive behavior may contribute to the perception that reported cases represent the first documented breast implant-associated fungal infections, when in fact such infections may be under-recognised and under-investigated. By drawing attention to these mechanisms and their clinical implications, this commentary aims to stimulate greater awareness and further investigation within the fields of infectious diseases and pathogen research.