The calcium deposits in breast are also known as breast calcification. It is a known fact this mineral tends to get deposited in the breast tissues. The problem is quite common, especially in case of women after menopause. There are two different forms, microcalcification and macrocalcification.
What causes breast’s calcium deposits?
These deposits come to life when crystals of collagen and calcium phosphate clump up together. The truth is that such deposits can be found in other body parts as well, not only the breasts. Other body parts include the hips, hands and shoulders. Calcification is known as part of degeneration.
Injuries or implants
The process that leads to the formation of deposits of calcium in breasts is triggered by injury, age or inflammation. In case there are any foreign objects in the breasts such as stitches or implants, the calcium could get deposited on them.
Fibroadenomas
When considering calcium deposits in breast you should also think about fibroadenomas. These are noncancerous growths on the mammary glands that are believed to form because of the hormone level changes during the menopausal stage. Calcium could get deposited in these growths.
Cysts
Another thing to consider regarding calcium deposits in women’s breasts is the breast cyst. This is a sac filled with fluid that usually is benign. Normally they appear during the 30s or 40s of women and they often disappear after the menopausal stage. If they don’t disappear, calcium could get deposited on them.
Milk ducts issues
Women also have to consider calcium deposits in breast in case of mammary duct ectasia. This is a problem associated with the milk duct. In this case the duct is blocked with milk, leading to calcifications. In such cases the doctors found that the ducts were blocked with milk for several years.
Diagnosis of calcium deposits in the breast of women
In the majority of the cases these calcifications occupy only little space. They could be so small that a manual exam may not reveal them. However it can be seen on the X-ray that is also known as mammography. They are shown as small white spots. These are studied by a radiologist.
Biopsy
In order to confirm the calcium deposits in breast there is need for a biopsy. During this procedure there is a part of the affected area removed. The specialists analyze the tissue to find whether it is benign or not. Two major kinds of biopsy are used for such purposes.
In order to find the women’s breast calcium deposits the doctors could use needle core biopsy. During this there is a needle used to gather the samples. The other procedure is called surgical biopsy. During the procedure there is a wire inserted into the breast to remove the sample tissue. Both of the procedures are performed under anesthesia.
Now you know a little more about calcium deposits in breast. As you can see this is a real threat that the majority of women aren’t aware of. This is why it is important to get tested on a regular basis.
Read more at http://www.womenhealthzone.com/womens-health/breast-health/calcium-deposits-in-breast/
