What is a macrocalcification and is it usually benign?

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Macrocalcifications are large, coarse calcium deposits seen on a mammogram. They typically arise from benign processes such as aging breast tissue, degenerating fibroadenomas, calcified cysts, or vascular calcifications. Their size and chunky, well-defined appearance make cancer unlikely, so they usually do not require biopsy or invasive workup. In contrast, tiny, numerous calcifications—microcalcifications—can be associated with malignant changes and require closer evaluation. So the description of large, coarse calcifications being typically benign best fits macrocalcifications.