Bone densitometry measures the mineral density of the bones. It is the main exam to diagnose and monitor osteopenia and osteoporosis, conditions in which bones become more fragile and prone to fractures. Since bone loss is silent, the exam is the way to find it before a fracture.
Who should have it
- Women from age 65.
- Men from age 70.
- Earlier than that, people with risk factors, at the doctor’s discretion.
Risk factors
- After menopause.
- Thyroid problems.
- Family history of osteoporosis.
- Smoking and a sedentary lifestyle.
- Rheumatic diseases, kidney stones or gastrointestinal diseases.
- Long term use of corticosteroids.
What the exam is like
It is quick, painless and uses a very low dose of radiation. You lie down while the device passes over the areas being assessed, usually the spine and the femur, which are the areas most affected by osteoporosis.
Preparation
- Eat normally: no fasting is needed.
- Do not take calcium supplements for at least 48 hours before.
- Wear clothes without zippers, buckles or metal buttons.
- Tell us if you recently had an exam with contrast or a nuclear medicine exam.
How to read the result
The report compares your bone density with that of a healthy young adult (the T-score) and with people your age (the Z-score). In general, a T-score down to −1 is considered normal; between −1 and −2.5 indicates osteopenia; and −2.5 or lower indicates osteoporosis. Your doctor is the one who interprets the result and decides on treatment.
Informational content. It does not replace your doctor’s advice.
