DiseaseInjuryNutritionPoison
Special TopicSurgerySymptomsTest
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
R
S
T
U
V
W
Y
Z
Mammography
Mammography
Overview

Mammogram - calcifications

Alternative Names:
Calcifications on mammograms

Information:

Question:
What if your mammogram shows calcifications?

Answer:
According to the American Cancer Society, calcifications or microcalcifications seen on a mammogram are small mineral deposits that show up as white spots on the mammogram film. Calcifications can be benign, but they can also be a sign of breast cancer. Sometimes the changes may be monitored by more mammograms. Other times a breast biopsy will be recommended, if the calcifications are tightly clustered, or show characteristics that are worrisome to the radiologist.



Review Date: 1/22/2002
Reviewed By: Victoria Kennedy, RN, A.D.A.M. editorial. (1/22/2002). Previous review: J. Gordon Lambert, MD, Associate Medical Director; RxRemedy. (10/1/1999).

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2003 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.

adam.com