Segmental Calcifications

IMAGING FINDINGS: ​
​
Right MLO view demonstrates pleomorphic calcifications in the central right breast in a segmental distribution.

WHY IT MATTERS:

1. Microcalcifications are one of the main ways breast cancer presents on mammography.  But calcifications also commonly form as simply part of the normal aging process. Almost every woman eventually has some calcifications within the breasts.
   
2. Calcifications are categorized by whether they have suspicious or benign appearing features. Evaluation includes their morphology and distribution.
   
3. Segmental distribution is a suspicious feature that warrants percutaneous biopsy.
   

FURTHER READING:
ACR BI-RADS® Atlas Fifth Edition: Quick Reference