Calcification is a process in which calcium builds up in body tissue, causing it to harden. Calcium is one of the most abundant minerals in the body, and it is usually deposited in bones and teeth. However, when a disorder affects the balance between calcium and certain chemicals in the body, calcium can be deposited in other parts of the body, such as the arteries, kidneys, lungs, and brain. Calcifications can usually be seen on X-rays, and they can indicate injury, inflammation, tissue repair, infection, or cancer, depending on their location. Some common types of calcification include:
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Arterial calcification: This occurs when calcium deposits build up in the arteries, which can cause problems with how these blood vessels work.
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Breast calcification: This happens when calcium builds up within the soft tissue of the breast, and it can be a marker of an underlying process within the tissue.
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Brain calcification: This is a condition that causes calcification in the blood vessels in the brain, usually in structures called basal ganglia, which control movement in the body.
Treatment for calcification depends on the severity and location of the deposits, and it can range from medication to surgery. If you have any underlying health problems, such as heart disease, kidney disease, or if you smoke, you may be susceptible to calcifications. It is important to talk with a doctor if you have any concerns about calcification or any underlying health issues.
