MAMMOGRAPHY
MICROCALCIFICATIONS
A 45-year-old woman visits her gynecologist after having her yearly
mammogram done. The mammogram reveals a “cluster” of
microcalcifications.Diagnosis. A geographic cluster of microcalcifications is nonpalpable. Although
most of these lesions are benign, approximately 15–20% represent early cancer.
An occult lesion requires stereotactic needle localization and biopsy under
mammographic guidance. The coordinates of the lesion are calculated by the
computer according to the basic principles of stereotaxis. The radiologist selects
the length of the biopsy needle, and a core biopsy is obtained. The procedure is
performed in an outpatient setting.
Management. Treatment is based on the established histologic diagnosis.