New Study Reveals Distinct Differences in Breast Calcifications

In a groundbreaking study, researchers from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, in collaboration with Mayo Clinic and the University of Texas at Austin, have identified significant structural differences between benign and cancerous breast calcifications. These findings, published on July 22, 2025, in the journal *Scientific Reports*, offer a novel insight into the formation processes of calcium phosphate deposits that, while appearing similar on mammograms, could lead to more accurate diagnoses and reduced unnecessary biopsies.

Breast calcifications, which often appear as white spots on mammograms, can be classified into benign, probably benign, and suspicious categories by radiologists. According to Dr. Bruce Fouke, a professor at the University of Illinois and the study's lead author, “Dense calcifications are very common in breast tissue. However, most biopsies of spots deemed suspicious turn out to be benign, leading to unnecessary procedures.” This study aims to enhance the diagnostic accuracy of mammograms, ultimately reducing the emotional and physical toll on patients.

The research team employed a comprehensive approach using twelve different analytical methods, including advanced microscopy and spectroscopy techniques, to examine biopsied tissue samples of benign breast disease (BBD) and ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS). Dr. Mayandi Sivaguru, the first author of the paper, explained, “We have developed an analytical arsenal for understanding complex mineralization pathways.” This rigorous methodology revealed that the calcifications consisted of amorphous calcium phosphate (ACP), a mineral believed to play a crucial role in the calcification processes in breast tissue.

Interestingly, the study found that the structure of calcifications differed significantly between BBD and DCIS. While BBD exhibited spherical nodules with concentric layering, cancerous calcifications were more elongated and irregular, resembling fossilization. “The types of ACP nodules we saw were completely unknown and establish a brand-new classification scheme between BBD and DCIS,” stated Dr. Fouke. This new classification could lead to improved diagnostic criteria for radiologists.

The implications of these findings extend beyond diagnostics. By understanding that benign calcifications are composed of ACP rather than crystalline hydroxyapatite, researchers suggest that certain medications known to dissolve ACP could potentially be used to treat benign calcifications, thereby preventing misidentifications in mammograms. Dr. Rohit Bhargava, co-author and director of the Cancer Center at Illinois, emphasized the significance of interdisciplinary collaboration, stating, “The unique partnerships at our university and the Mayo Clinic have the potential to lead to better breast cancer care.”

Looking ahead, the research team plans to explore calcifications in more advanced stages of invasive breast cancer and investigate the role of calcification in the progression of DCIS to invasive cancer. They aim to leverage their findings in developing a GeoBioCell, an innovative microfluidic device to simulate breast fluid interactions and test therapeutic agents.

In conclusion, this research not only enhances the understanding of breast calcifications but also opens new avenues for improving diagnostic methodologies and therapeutic strategies in breast cancer care. By refining mammogram interpretations and potentially reducing unnecessary biopsies, these findings hold promise for advancing public health outcomes related to breast cancer diagnosis and treatment.