DEAR DR. GOTT: What causes calcification of cells? I have calcified cells in my right breast. I just had my six-month mammogram to check them. I will go back to my doctor soon to hear the results but would appreciate your comments.
DEAR READER: The calcifications to which you refer represent calcium deposits within the breast tissue that appear as flecks or white spots on a mammogram. They typically appear as tiny grains of salt and cannot be felt by palpation and are particularly prevalent following menopause. While commonly benign, certain calcification patterns, such as clusters with irregular shapes, may indicate cancer. Should a radiologist or physician have any question, additional testing such as a follow-up mammogram, ultrasound or biopsy may be appropriate.
Causes of benign calcifications include cysts in the breasts, dermal or vascular calcifications, cell secretion, ectasia of the mammary duct, prior radiation treatment for cancer, fibroadenomas, mastitis, prior injury and more.
Your physician(s) will definitely want to see you on a timely basis to be assured the calcifications remain stable and don’t change in appearance. Keep informed, and follow your doctor’s advice. If for any reason you are uncomfortable in either waiting and watching or having specific testing performed, request a second opinion.