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Sunday, March 22, 2009 janetc asks

Q: multiple microcalcification clusters.

I had 2 digital mammogram. The second mammogram showed multiple microcalcification clusters. 1 looks benign, 3 are suspicias. I am suppose to go for a biopsy in 2 weeks. What does it mean to have too many microcalcification clusters? Also what does it mean when 2 of the clusters are identical in shape and size. The radiologist wants to biopsy only one of them because he said the other one will have the same result. In all I have two areas that they will biopsy.

Thanks for all your help. Janet

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PJ Hamel, Health Guide
3/22/09 3:01pm

Hi Janet - Microcalcifications are almost like a "shadow" of breast cancer; they're not cancer themselves, but are a sign that cancer might be developing. When they're randomly scattered, doctors will take a wait-and-see approach. When they gather into clusters, or form a pattern, a biopsy is called for. Since you have two groups that have gathered into a cluster, it's safe to say the biopsy result from either would be the same, so they only need to take one sample. Again, this isn't cancer - but it's a warning sign, and I'm glad you're having it examined. Best of luck to you - PJH

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By janetc— Last Modified: 12/25/10, First Published: 03/22/09