Dystrophic calcifications are deposits of calcium salts that occur in damaged or necrotic tissues, typically in the absence of systemic calcium metabolism disorders. They often appear in areas of inflammation, injury, or cell death, such as in atherosclerotic plaques, tumors, or chronic infections. Unlike metastatic calcifications, which result from elevated serum calcium levels, dystrophic calcifications indicate localized tissue damage. These calcifications can be detected through imaging techniques and may be associated with various pathological conditions.
Iliac artery calcification is when there are calcium deposits forming. They form inside the artery and sometimes cause blockages. These calcifications form deposits in arteries.
Breast calcifications are often benign and do not usually interfere with breastfeeding. However, it's essential to consult with your healthcare provider to assess your specific situation, as they can provide personalized advice based on the type and cause of the calcifications. If breastfeeding is deemed safe, it can still be beneficial for both you and your baby.
focal calcification
Vascular calcifications in the foot refer to the abnormal accumulation of calcium within the blood vessels in the foot. This can lead to conditions such as peripheral arterial disease, arterial calcification, or calcific tendinitis. These calcifications can impair blood flow to the foot, leading to symptoms like pain, numbness, or difficulty walking.
"Coronary calcifications are seen" on a CT scan indicates the presence of calcium deposits in the coronary arteries, which can be a sign of atherosclerosis or coronary artery disease. These calcifications are often assessed using a coronary artery calcium (CAC) score, helping to evaluate the risk of heart disease. The presence of calcifications suggests that there may be underlying plaque buildup, which can lead to narrowed arteries and increased risk of cardiovascular events.
Not necessarily, Most women have calcifications (calcium) in their breast tissue. It is important that when you have a mammogram you also have any prior images with you so the radiologist (X ray Doctor) can compare them to see if the calcifications were present on your prior exam or if they are new. Some calcifications require further imaging if they look questionable.
Hepatic parenchymal calcifications refer to the presence of calcium deposits within the liver tissue. These calcifications can be detected through imaging studies such as X-rays, CT scans, or ultrasounds. They are often associated with chronic conditions such as liver cirrhosis, granulomatous diseases, or previous infections. The presence of hepatic parenchymal calcifications may indicate underlying liver pathology and may require further evaluation by a healthcare provider.
Indeterminate calcifications with a clustered distribution on mammogram results indicate areas where calcium deposits are present but cannot be definitively classified as benign or malignant. These calcifications are often grouped together and may require further investigation, such as additional imaging or a biopsy, to determine their significance. The term "indeterminate" suggests that the findings are unclear, necessitating closer evaluation to rule out any potential abnormalities.
Vascular calcifications refer to the accumulation of calcium deposits in the blood vessels, often seen in conditions like atherosclerosis and chronic kidney disease. These deposits can lead to stiffening and narrowing of the arteries, increasing the risk of cardiovascular events such as heart attacks and strokes. Vascular calcifications are typically assessed through imaging techniques and can indicate underlying health issues. They can be a marker of systemic disease and may require management to reduce associated health risks.
Benign-appearing calcifications are small deposits of calcium that are typically found in tissues, such as breast tissue, and are considered non-cancerous. They often appear as small white spots on imaging studies like mammograms and are usually characterized by specific patterns that indicate they are not associated with malignancy. Common types include microcalcifications and macrocalcifications, which can result from various benign conditions. These calcifications are generally monitored rather than treated unless there are changes that warrant further investigation.
Breast calcifications are small areas of calcium in the breast that cannot be felt, and are only detected on a breast mammogram. They are very common and in most cases harmless. There are two types: Macro-calcifications, which are harmless and need no treatment or monitoring, and Micro-calcifications, which are usually found in an area in which cells are dividing quickly. They are usually harmless, but if found in a cluster in one area, can be a sign of pre-cancerous changes in the breast and further medical tests will be necessary. For more information, visit the link in "Edit Links" on the left.