What are my chances?

[suzyqc]

I had a routine mammogram at the end of last year.  They had me go to the hospital and have a magnafied mammogram done on my right breast. They found 2 calcifications.  Because I didn't have a mammogram for at least 10 years, they said that I should come back in 6 months, to redo my mammogram.  My question is, what are my chances that these calcifications will be cancerous?
And what kind of treatment do you think they will do?

[CCF-RN,MSN-JS]

Dear Suzyqc, 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.   Other times following more closely is all that is recommended such as repeating the mammogram in six months rather than in a year.  If the six month mammogram shows changes they would then most likely evaluate further.  The evaluation may include a biopsy of the tissue in the area of the abnormality.  

[MPM]

I also had calcifications on a routine mammo.  They told me to come back in six months. I chose to have a biopsy done right away and thank goodness I did.  I had DCIS an early stage of breast cancer.  I had it removed along with six weeks of radiation.  My theory....don't wait.

[high pockets]

I also had a screening mammography,told I had new calcifications and was give option to have stereo tatic biopsy or 6 month follow up.  went with the biopsy and had cancer. I would vote for the more aggressive follow up!

[bucko13]

I was dx'd with microcalcifications in December, had a second opinion in January, a needle loc in March and a subtotal mastectony a week later.  I'm glad I didn't "watch it for a while" as I was first advised. It was a 4 cm comedo carcinoma.