Body Part - Breast
CIRCUMSCRIBED MARGINS
This refers to smooth contour of a mass. The mass is sharply demarcated from the surrounding tissue. This is a descriptor used for masses that are more likely to be benign.
CLINICAL CORRELATION
This is a phrase often used in the sentence, “Clinical correlation is recommended.” When this phrase is used, the radiologist wants the patient’s doctor to make sure that the mammogram, ultrasound, or MRI finding matches up with the patient’s overall clinical history and physical exam. Compared to the radiologist, the patient’s doctor is much more familiar with the patient’s overall health history. For example, the radiologist might see something that looks like an abscess. If the patient’s doctor has observed signs/symptoms of infection such as fever, pain and increased white blood count, the diagnosis of abscess is highly likely to be correct. On the other hand, if the patient’s doctor has a very low suspicion of infection, the diagnosis of abscess should be questioned.
CLUSTERED MICROCALCIFICATIONS
These look like tiny white dots in groups or clusters (on a mammogram). If the individual dots are round and similar in size, there is a good chance that these are not cancerous. If the individual dots are jagged and/or different sizes, there is a good chance that these are cancerous. The radiologist is likely to recommend biopsy. Also known as “grouped microcalcifications”.
COARSE CALCIFICATION
A calcification deposit that is shaped like a popcorn or small chunks of cookie dough. This is usually associated with a fibroadenoma (a benign tumor). Also known as “popcorn calcification”.
COMPLEX CYSTIC AND SOLID MASS
This is a mass with both cystic (fluid) and solid components. Biopsy is likely needed to determine if this is cancerous or not. Also known as “complex cystic mass”.
COMPLEX CYSTIC MASS
This is a mass with both cystic (fluid) and solid components. Biopsy is likely needed to determine if this is cancerous or not. Also known as “complex cystic and solid mass”.
COMPLICATED CYST
This is a cyst with mucus or debris inside of it. This is a benign (non-cancerous) finding. . Sometimes the radiologist may want to aspirate the cyst to prove that it is debris and not soft tissue.
CONTRALATERAL
Adjective. Opposite side. If a woman says, “I have pain in my right breast, but the contralateral breast is fine.”, it means that the left breast is fine.
CONTUSION
A “bruise” of a body part caused by trauma.
CORE BIOPSY
A special biopsy needle is used to sample tissue using local anesthesia. This is an outpatient procedure most often done by a radiologist. The sampled tissue pieces are shaped like tiny worms or small pieces of spaghetti. It usually provides more information than a fine needle aspiration.
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