Open Access

Breast microcalcifications: Past, present and future (Review)

  • Authors:
    • Angela F. Logullo
    • Karla C.K. Prigenzi
    • Cristiane C.B.A. Nimir
    • Andreia F.V. Franco
    • Mario S.D.A. Campos
  • View Affiliations

  • Published online on: February 10, 2022     https://doi.org/10.3892/mco.2022.2514
  • Article Number: 81
  • Copyright: © Logullo et al. This is an open access article distributed under the terms of Creative Commons Attribution License.

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Abstract

Mammary microcalcifications (MCs) are calcium deposits that are considered as robust markers of breast cancer when identified on mammography. MCs are frequently associated with premalignant and malignant lesions. The aim of the present review was to describe the MC types and associated radiological and pathological aspects in detail, provide insights and approaches to the topic, and describe specific clinical scenarios. The primary MC types are composed of calcium oxalate, hydroxyapatite and hydroxyapatite associated with magnesium. The first type is usually associated with benign conditions, while the others remain primarily associated with malignancy. Radiologically, MCs are classified as benign or suspicious. MCs may represent an active pathological mineralization process rather than a passive process, such as degeneration or necrosis. Practical management of breast specimens requires finely calibrated radiological pathological procedures. Understanding the molecular and structural development of MCs may contribute to breast lesion detection and treatment.
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April-2022
Volume 16 Issue 4

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Spandidos Publications style
Logullo AF, Prigenzi KC, Nimir CC, Franco AF and Campos MS: Breast microcalcifications: Past, present and future (Review). Mol Clin Oncol 16: 81, 2022.
APA
Logullo, A.F., Prigenzi, K.C., Nimir, C.C., Franco, A.F., & Campos, M.S. (2022). Breast microcalcifications: Past, present and future (Review). Molecular and Clinical Oncology, 16, 81. https://doi.org/10.3892/mco.2022.2514
MLA
Logullo, A. F., Prigenzi, K. C., Nimir, C. C., Franco, A. F., Campos, M. S."Breast microcalcifications: Past, present and future (Review)". Molecular and Clinical Oncology 16.4 (2022): 81.
Chicago
Logullo, A. F., Prigenzi, K. C., Nimir, C. C., Franco, A. F., Campos, M. S."Breast microcalcifications: Past, present and future (Review)". Molecular and Clinical Oncology 16, no. 4 (2022): 81. https://doi.org/10.3892/mco.2022.2514