Mammographic and histologic correlations of microcalcifications

The majority of microcalcifications found on mammograms are associated with benign disease; however, some types accompany malignant disease. By correlating histologic with mammographic findings, the radiologist may gain an understanding of the morphologic characteristics and distribution of microcalcifications. We present radiologic and histologic images from a series of cases of nonpalpable, clustered microcalcifications. Such microcalcifications can be divided into two basic histologic groups: lobular and ductal. Although rounded, similarly shaped lobular calcifications can be differentiated mammographically from ductal calcifications with their irregular margins and varying size and shape, both types can be associated with benign and malignant processes. Biopsy is usually needed to confirm the diagnosis when clustered microcalcifications are found at mammography.