[X-ray morphologic characteristics of microcalcination in benign processes and cancer of the breast]

Mammographic and morphologic examination was carried out in 136 females bearing microcalcinates in breast tissue. Morphologic examination identified benign tumors (mostly fibrous cysts) in 72.1% and cancer (mostly ductal and lobular carcinoma in situ or initial signs of invasion) in 27.9% of cases. Calcinates occurred mainly in the epithelium and incipient cancer complexes. The analysis of the data showed shape, structure and distinctness of contours of calcinates to be instrumental in differentiating between malignant and benign lesions.