Bone mineral density test: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/007197.

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Bone mineral density test

A bone mineral density (BMD) test measures how much calcium and other MedlinePlus Topics
types of minerals are present in a section of your bone. Your health care
provider uses this test, along with other risk factors, to predict your risk of bone Osteoporosis
fractures in the future. Bone fracture risk is highest in people with osteoporosis.
Images
How the Test is Performed

Several different kinds of machines can do BMD testing. The most common
method, called a DEXA scan, uses low-dose x-rays (about 1/10th the radiation
dose of a chest x-ray). Bone density Osteoporosis
scan
While you are lying in on a cushioned table, a scanner passes over your body.
Typically, the machine takes x-rays of your lower spine and hip. This is called a
central DEXA scan. In most cases you won't need to undress.

There are smaller machines that just measure the bone density in your wrist,
fingers, leg, or heel. You may find these in pharmacies, shopping centers, and Osteoporosis
health fairs. However, a central DEXA scan that measures bone density in your
lower spine or hip is the best test to predict your risk of fractures. Read More

Osteoporosis
How to Prepare for the Test

Remove any jewelry before the BMD test. Inform your health care provider if
you may be pregnant.

How the Test Will Feel

The scan is painless, although you will need to remain still during the test.

Why the Test is Performed

Guidelines recommend screening for those who are thought to be at increased

risk for osteoporosis:

Women over age 65 and men over age 70

Women under age 65 and men ages 50 - 70 who have risk factors such
as:
A fracture in any man or woman over age 50
Chronic rheumatoid arthritis, chronic kidney disease, eating
disorders
Early menopause (either from natural causes or surgery)
History of hormone treatment for prostate cancer or breast
cancer
Significant loss of height (See: Compression fractures of the
back)
Smoking
Strong family history of osteoporosis
Taking corticosteroid medications (prednisone,
methylprednisolone) every day for more than 3 months
Three or more drinks of alcohol per day on most days

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Bone mineral density test: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/007197.htm

If you are being treated for osteoporosis, BMD testing can help your health
care provider monitor your response to the treatment.

The results are used as part of the FRAX scoring system, which considers bone
density test results with other fracture risk factors. From this score, you and
your doctor can determine whether you might need medication to treat the
osteoporosis.

Normal Results

The results of your test are usually reported as a "T score" and "Z score."

The T score compares your bone density with that of healthy young
women.
The Z score compares your bone density with that of other people of
your age, gender, and race.

In either score, a negative number means you have thinner bones than the
standard. The more negative the number, the higher your risk of a bone
fracture.

A T score is within the normal range if it is -1.0 or above.

What Abnormal Results Mean

Bone mineral density testing does not diagnose fractures. However, along with
other risk factors you may have, it helps predict your risk of having a bone
fracture in the future. Your doctor will help you understand the results.

A T score between -1 and -2.5 indicates the beginning of bone loss

(osteopenia).
A T score below -2.5 indicates osteoporosis.

Risks

BMD testing involves exposure to a low level of radiation. Most experts feel that
the risk is very low compared with the benefits of identifying osteoporosis
before you break a bone.

Considerations

Simple bone density scans using portable machines may be available as part of
health fairs or screenings. These portable scanners may check the density of
your wrist or heel. However, keep in mind that hip and spine scans are more
reliable.

Alternative Names

BMD test; Bone density test; Bone densitometry; DEXA scan; DXA;
Dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry

References

Lim LS, Hoeksema LJ, Sherin K. ACPM Prevention Practice Committee.

Screening for Osteoporosis in the adult U.S. population: ACPM position
statement on preventive practice. Am J Prev Med. 2009;36:366-375.

National Osteoporosis Foundation. Clinician's Guide to Prevention and

Treatment of Osteoporosis. 2008.

Update Date: 12/20/2009

Updated by: Susan Storck, MD, FACOG, Chief, Eastside Department of

Obstetrics and Gynecology, Group Health Cooperative of Puget Sound,
Redmond, Washington; Clinical Teaching Faculty, Department of Obstetrics and

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