Breast microcalcifications: how to answer women's questions

One of your patients, a 57-year-old woman, presents to the primary care setting, clutching the results of her routine mammography screening test. She says she was told that her mammogram shows microcalcifications and that she needs further testing. She's fearful, asking you, "Does this mean I have cancer?" How do you help her interpret her mammogram results and give her guidance? A thorough understanding of the significance of pathophysiologic positive findings on routine mammograms in asymptomatic women will inform your choice of anticipatory guidance and continued care.