Expert: Claes-Gustaf Nordquist, M.D. - 1/26/2012

Question
I'm a 40 yr old who just went for my first mammogram. I was called back for more images of my left breast due to calcification. The radiologist is recommending a biopsy at this time and confirmed it's a microcalcification of about 2mm but that's all I was told. I have to wait to discuss the biopsy referral with my physician but I'm nervous, confused, and anxious. Is it normal to have such a small calcification biopsied? There were no lumps or cysts found. I was told there is a 80-90% chance that it's benign.  I also found out that I have dense breasts so I'm not sure if that matters. The internet is soooo full of information I have to stop reading right now. Thanks for your time!

Answer
Calcifications in breast tissues MAY be associated with breast cancer (some but not all are). Dense breasts are MUCH more difficult to evaluate by mammography. So to sum it up I do agree with your doctors that a biopsy is a good idea here even if it probably turns out not to be a cancer. But then we will KNOW that! Now we can not be sure! Anyway we will KNOW what we are dealing with. Good luck!



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