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Bone Density Scan

A Bone Density Scan is used to determine the compactness of bone. The computerized scanning equipment uses a low dose of radiation to measure the denseness of a hip or the spine.

The test takes about 15 minutes and is easily administered. The results assist the physician in diagnosing men and women at risk for osteoporosis.

A Bone Mineral Density (BMD) test is also referred to as bone densitometry. BMD is an important diagnostic tool that not only measures the amount of calcium in certain bones - but also can be used to estimate the risk of fracture. The test is easy, fast, painless, and non-invasive.

Although BMD isn't recommended for all women and men, the test may be considered when:

• An x-ray reveals low bone mass (osteopenia) or possibly osteoporosis
• Menopause occurs prior to age 45 and the patient is not taking estrogen (e.g. Estrogen Replacement Therapy, ERT)
• A woman is age 65 or older
• A post-menopausal woman who sustains a fracture (any type)
• A family history of osteoporosis
• Steroids have been (or are) taken regularly
• Presence of hyperthyroidism, diabetes, liver/kidney disease, rheumatoid arthritis

Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry or DEXA is the most common method used to measure bone density and requires no patient preparation. The patient simply lies on a padded table during the scan of a particular part of the body such as the lower spine and hip. The test period is short - only several minutes. A radiologist reads and compares the results to normal values and prepares a concise report for the referring physician.

QCT or Quantitative Computed Tomography is also extremely accurate in measuring bone density in the spine or hip. QCT is not as widely available as DEXA.

The bone density score determines if the patient has osteopenia (low bone mass) or osteoporosis. A woman's bone mass peaks around age 35 and levels off during menopause. Bone density declines sharply during the first years of menopause. A DEXA scan can detect even a 1% loss of bone mass. A BMD can be critical to a woman's health later in life when the risk of fracture increases.