Generality
Calcifications are breast changes related to the presence of a pathology which, depending on the case, can be benign or malignant. These lesions are the result of the deposition of calcium salts in the breast tissue and - due to their marked contrast to X-rays - can be visualized by mammography.
Usually, breast calcifications with a benign appearance are isolated and round, while those with a malignant conformation are heterogeneous in shape and density, grouped and pleomorphic.
Deposits of calcium salts are often related to benign changes in breast tissue and, in most cases, are not dangerous. Sometimes, however, microcalcifications (ie small opacities) can become pre-tumor alarm signals: about 30% of breast malignancies are diagnosed only thanks to the presence of these alterations.
When breast calcifications have characteristics of certain benignity, normal annual mammography checks are continued; if there are elements of diagnostic doubt, however, it is necessary to proceed with the biopsy for the histological definition.
What are?
Breast calcifications are deposits of calcium salts. These lesions are painless and generally not palpable.
The most appropriate technique for their visualization is mammography: breast calcifications are easily detected by their radiographic contrast with respect to breast tissues.
These small mineral deposits can be seen in both normal and pathological breasts. For this reason, their characteristics must be carefully analyzed.
