X-ray calcifications as the only basis for breast biopsy.

Two hundred fifty-one consecutive patients were treated between 1964 and 1982 with mammographic calcifications as the only reason for breast biopsy. Patients with either clinical or x-ray findings other than calcifications were excluded. A correlation of the x-ray, pathology, and clinical experience is the basis of this report. Specimen radiography with paraffin section histology (i.e., no frozen section) was performed on all biopsy material. The procedure of specimen radiography that was utilized is described. A team approach involving radiologists, pathologists, and surgeons has been essential both to confirm excision of the calcifications and localize them for pathology study. Carcinoma was found in 45 patients (17%). A retrospective study of the calcifications was also undertaken to determine characteristics that would permit definitive radiographic diagnosis of benign or malignant disease.