Calcifications on mammograms

Alternative names
Mammogram - calcifications

Information

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 may be a sign of breast cancer.

Sometimes the changes are monitored by additional tests including repeat mammograms. Other times, a breast biopsy will be recommended, especially if the calcifications are tightly clustered, or show characteristics that are worrisome to the radiologist.

Johns Hopkins patient information

Last revised: December 5, 2012
by David A. Scott, M.D.

Medical Encyclopedia

  A | B | C | D | E | F | G | H | I | J | K | L | M | N | O | P | Q | R | S | T | U | V | W | X | Y | Z | 0-9

All ArmMed Media material is provided for information only and is neither advice nor a substitute for proper medical care. Consult a qualified healthcare professional who understands your particular history for individual concerns.