Microcalcification: Difference between revisions
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==Overview== | ==Overview== | ||
'''Microcalcifications''' are tiny specks of mineral deposits ([[calcium]]), that can be scattered throughout the [[mammary gland]], or occur in clusters. When found on a [[mammogram]], an operative will then decide whether the specks are of concern - usually, this is not the case. | '''Microcalcifications''' are tiny specks of mineral deposits ([[calcium]]), that can be scattered throughout the [[mammary gland]], or occur in clusters. When found on a [[mammogram]], an operative will then decide whether the specks are of concern - usually, this is not the case. | ||
=Differential diagnosis of microcalcification== | ==Differential diagnosis of microcalcification== | ||
Commonly, they simply indicate the presence of tiny benign [[cyst]]s, but can signify the presence of early [[breast cancer]]; for this reason, it is important to attend regular screening sessions, as recommended by your health service. | Commonly, they simply indicate the presence of tiny benign [[cyst]]s, but can signify the presence of early [[breast cancer]]; for this reason, it is important to attend regular screening sessions, as recommended by your health service. | ||
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Depending on what pattern the microcalcifications present determines the future course of the action, whether it be further investigatory techniques (as part of the triple assessment), or more regular screening. | Depending on what pattern the microcalcifications present determines the future course of the action, whether it be further investigatory techniques (as part of the triple assessment), or more regular screening. | ||
==References== | |||
{{reflist|2}} | |||
{{Symptoms and signs}} | {{Symptoms and signs}} | ||
{{SIB}} | {{SIB}} | ||
[[Category:Disease]] | |||
[[Category:Types of cancer]] | |||
[[Category:Oncology]] | [[Category:Oncology]] | ||
[[Category:Medical imaging]] | [[Category:Medical imaging]] | ||
Revision as of 15:23, 22 January 2012
| Microcalcification |
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]
Overview
Microcalcifications are tiny specks of mineral deposits (calcium), that can be scattered throughout the mammary gland, or occur in clusters. When found on a mammogram, an operative will then decide whether the specks are of concern - usually, this is not the case.
Differential diagnosis of microcalcification
Commonly, they simply indicate the presence of tiny benign cysts, but can signify the presence of early breast cancer; for this reason, it is important to attend regular screening sessions, as recommended by your health service.
They are caused by a number of reasons:
- Aging - the majority of diagnoses are made in women over 50
- Benign causes
- Genetic - involving the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes
Depending on what pattern the microcalcifications present determines the future course of the action, whether it be further investigatory techniques (as part of the triple assessment), or more regular screening.
References
Template:Skin and subcutaneous tissue symptoms and signs Template:Nervous and musculoskeletal system symptoms and signs Template:Urinary system symptoms and signs Template:Cognition, perception, emotional state and behaviour symptoms and signs Template:Speech and voice symptoms and signs Template:General symptoms and signs