Breast microcalcifications on mammograms

Abstract

Breast calcifications are usually found by chance during screening mammograms or diagnostic mammograms. Early detection of breast calcifications through routine mammography is vital for timely intervention and effective treatment. Mammography is used worldwide to detect microcalcifications. Breast calcifications are very common, and they are usually benign and occur as a part of the aging process. Many fibroadenomas, breast cysts, injuries of the breast tissue, mastitis can also form microcalcifications. Additionally, calcifications can develop within the blood vessels of the breast. Some microcalcifications can be the only and early presenting sign of breast cancer. With the mammography we can not only diagnose breast cancer in a non palpable stage, but can also detect the extent of the disease. The knowledge of the various microcalcification patterns on mammography helps in correct interpretation and management of microcalcifications in breast. We will display numerous types of microcalcifications. The majority of presented microcalcifications are suspicious of malignancy. Also microcalcifications can be seen with no associated tumor mass.