Popcorn calcification

A radiologic pattern of coarse, lobulated, amorphous calcifications, often forming rings, arcs, or clustered densities resembling popped corn kernels, reflecting progressive mineralization of benign or degenerative tissue lesions.

Causes

• Pulmonary causes

  • Pulmonary hamartoma (classic cause of “popcorn” calcification)

  • Calcified granulomatous lesions

• Breast: Degenerating fibroadenoma

• Bone disease

  • Enchondroma

  • Osteogenesis imperfecta-associated bone abnormalities

• Gynecology: Calcified uterine fibroids (leiomyomas)