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Breast Cancer (Expert Forum)
Microcalcifications
Questions posted in the Breast Cancer Forum are answered by medical professionals from The Cleveland Clinic. Topics include Breast Biopsy, Chemotherapy, Hormone Therapy, Lumps, Lumpectomy, Lymph node dissection, Lymphedema, Mammograms, Mastectomy, Radiation Therapy, Reconstruction, Self Breast Exam, and Surgery.
Microcalcifications
by JILLY1, May 08, 2001 12:00AM
My Doctors nurse called with my mammogram report and told me it read microcalcifications noted to repeat in six months. I am 38 with a family history of ovarian and breast cancer, I smoke and drink occasionaly. I am concerned we are not doing more about this now. I made an appointment for friday to speak to my doctor and ask more questions, although my anxiety is nuts right now. do you think additional test or spot testing should be completed sooner? this was my first mammogram thanks!
Doctor's Answer
by CCF-RN,MSN-JS, May 09, 2001 12:00AM
Dear Jilly1, Microcalcifications are small calcium deposits found within the breast tissue. There are different types of microcalcifications, and based on their pattern on the mammogram it gives the radiologist clues as to their cause. For instance microcalcifications that are more scattered are probably due to a benign (non-cancerous) cause, a “cluster” of microcalcifications may increase concern that there may be an underlying tumor. If the microcalcification pattern is indeterminate the radiologist would usually recommend a more focused mammogram (diagnostic) which would include magnified views to the area.
When seeing your doctor some questions to ask are; how were the microcalcifications classified by the radiologist? What are the benefits and risks of waiting for the follow-up mammogram? Would a diagnostic mammogram be indicated at this time? What are the benefits and risks of having a biopsy now?
If you still have questions about the results you may want to seek a second opinion from a radiologist who is independent of the first radiologist. They would need to see the original mammogram and may want to repeat the mammogram.
When seeing your doctor some questions to ask are; how were the microcalcifications classified by the radiologist? What are the benefits and risks of waiting for the follow-up mammogram? Would a diagnostic mammogram be indicated at this time? What are the benefits and risks of having a biopsy now?
If you still have questions about the results you may want to seek a second opinion from a radiologist who is independent of the first radiologist. They would need to see the original mammogram and may want to repeat the mammogram.
Member Comments (3)
by veroni, May 11, 2001 12:00AM
PLEASE DO NOT WAIT TO INVESTIGATE! Talk to your doctor or get a second opinion. I have heard of too many cases that became more serious because of delay. I also have a personal experience with calcifications that necessitated serious surgery. I tell you this to save your life, not to frighten you. God bless!!!
by Maman, May 14, 2001 12:00AM
Two radiologists declared my post lumpectomy calcifications benign. A third at a major cancer center was suspicious. He was right: a biopsy revealed DCIS (in situ cancer). If your second opinion specialist is not sure, have the calcifications removed. Even if dangerous, calcifications are indicators of usually VERY early disease. Good Luck.
