In other cases a tissue biopsy is recommended. This surgical removal and microscopic examination of the lump is the only way to determine whether cancer cells are present. If the biopsy indicates the presence of cancer cells, then you and your physician will confer about treatment options. A biopsy is the surgical removal of a small piece of tissue for microscopic examination to determine if cancer cells are present. A biopsy is the most important procedure in diagnosing cancer.
Calcifications are small calcium deposits in the breast that are found by mammography.
Microcalcifications are tiny specks of calcium which may be found in an area of rapidly dividing cells. Whey many of these are seen in one area, they are referred to as a cluster and may indicate a small cancer. About half of the cancers detected by mammography appears as a cluster of microcalcifications, the other half appear as lumps. Macrocalcifications are coarse calcium deposits that are found in about half of all women over age 50 and are associated with benign conditions. They are often seen in both breasts and are most likely due to aging or old injuries.