Presentation
No family history. Referred for her first mammogram.
Patient Data
Routine screening images of the right breast. Note the group of tightly packed linear microcalcifications in a duct
Mag views of the microcalcifications.
Arrow indicates the microcalcifications of interest.
Ultrasound manages to find the microcalcifications.
Arrow indicates the microcalcifications.
Case Discussion
This case is confirmed DCIS. The initial mammogram shows a group of tightly packed linear calcifications in a duct. At first glance, they look almost casting in nature.
The value of the mag views: the inferior part of the calcifications as projected on the image shows just the faintest hint that they are in fact branching and one or two sharp points are seen. This justified biopsy.
The yield on breast ultrasound is directly proportional to the skill and care took during the study. On good quality machines and with adequate care, you can make the most astounding lesions visible on ultrasound.