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Abstract
<p class="first" id="d4678089e107">Many breast lesions are associated with microcalcifications
that are detectable by
mammography. In most cases, radiologists are able to distinguish calcifications usually
associated with benign diseases from those associated with malignancy. In addition
to their value in the early detection of breast carcinoma and accurate radiological
diagnosis, the presence of microcalcifications often affects the extent of surgical
intervention. Certain types of microcalcifications are associated with negative genetic
and molecular characteristics of the tumor and unfavorable prognosis. Microcalcifications
localized in the larger ducts (duct-centric, casting-type microcalcifications) represent
an independent negative prognostic marker compared to lesions containing other types
of microcalcifications and to non-calcified lesions. In this review, we summarize
the theoretical and methodological background for understanding the clinical impact
and discuss the diagnostic and prognostic value of microcalcifications detected in
the breast by mammography.
</p>