Calcium deposits in breast tissue can be detected on mammograms as microcalcifications, which can indicate breast cancer but are often benign. Doctors examine their size, shape, and groupings to determine the cause. Early detection through mammography has greatly improved treatment options for breast cancer.
Occasionally, calcium deposits can build up within the breast tissue. These small accumulations are undetectable on manual breast exams, but can be seen as microcalcifications on a mammogram. While these buildups can be an indication of breast cancer, they’re often quite benign.
While early stage breast cancer can be considered, there are many more common and less serious causes of breast calcifications. Most commonly, microcalcifications on a mammogram can be linked to a healing lesion of the breast. In some cases, the milk ducts in the breast can thicken and become blocked, causing calcifications. Similarly, mastitis, an infection of the breast tissue, can also cause an abnormal mammogram result.
When examining microcalcifications on a mammogram, doctors look at their size, shape, and groupings. Larger deposits of calcium salts are called macrocalcifications. These are usually painless and harmless. Unless these breast calcifications are causing discomfort, no further treatment is needed.
Mammograms that show small, round white dots scattered throughout the breast are common and generally not a cause for concern. White spots that are flat or oddly shaped are more of a concern. Situations where these irregularly shaped accumulations are densely collected may indicate the early presence of breast cancer.
Even when microcalcifications on a mammogram are a concern, the presence of breast cancer is often ruled out by subsequent mammograms that focus specifically on areas of calcification. You may request additional tests, including ultrasound pictures and blood tests. In cases where breast cancer is strongly suspected, a biopsy may be performed.
Fortunately, even when breast cancer is determined to be the cause of microcalcifications on a mammogram, the prognosis is very good. When breast cancer is diagnosed at this early stage of development, it is usually called ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS). Essentially, this means that the cancer is very localized and often quite treatable.
Most women with DCIS need only the affected area of the breast removed. This minor surgery, called a lumpectomy, requires little recovery time. Also, this procedure has little or no effect on the appearance of the breasts. Radiation therapy is often suggested to ensure that the cancer has been completely eradicated.
Without improvements in mammography technology, DCIS detection would be nearly impossible. Historically, breast cancer was generally only detectable after it grew large enough to be felt on physical examination. Unfortunately, at this point, treatment was difficult and successful recovery usually came at the cost of one or both breasts. Therefore, the arrival of equipment sensitive enough to detect breast calcifications is a great boon in the fight against breast cancer. Women are encouraged to take advantage of this by scheduling regular mammograms as part of their health care regimens.
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