Osteoporosis is ij progressive disease scsn causes bones to become very thin and brittle. DXA healh most often used to diagnose Chromium browser open sourcea condition that often affects women after menopause but may also be found in men and rarely in children. The presence of vertebral compression fractures or osteoarthritis may interfere with the accuracy of the test; in such instances, CT scans may be more useful.

DEXA scan for evaluating bone health in individuals with low body weight -

The peripheral tests are simpler. The finger, hand, forearm or foot is placed in a small device that obtains a bone density reading within a few minutes. An additional procedure called Vertebral Fracture Assessment VFA is now being done at many centers.

VFA is a low-dose x-ray examination of the spine to screen for vertebral fractures that is performed on the DXA machine. The DXA bone density test is usually completed within 10 to 30 minutes, depending on the equipment used and the parts of the body being examined.

You will probably be asked to fill out a questionnaire that will help the doctor determine if you have medical conditions or take certain medications that either increase or decrease your risk of a fracture.

The World Health Organization has recently released an online survey that combines the DXA results and a few basic questions and can be used to predict year risk of hip fracture or other major osteoporotic fractures for post-menopausal women.

Routine evaluations every two years may be needed to see a significant change in bone mineral density, decrease or increase. Few patients, such as patients on high dose steroid medication, may need follow-up at six months.

A radiologist , a doctor trained to supervise and interpret radiology examinations, will analyze the images. The radiologist will send a signed report to your primary care or referring physician who will discuss the results with you.

DXA scans are also interpreted by other physicians such as rheumatologists and endocrinologists. A clinician should review your DXA scan while assessing the presence of clinical risk factors such as:.

T score — This number shows the amount of bone you have compared with a young adult of the same gender with peak bone mass. A score of -1 and above is considered normal. A score between A score of The T score is used to estimate your risk of developing a fracture and also to determine if treatment is required.

Z score — This number reflects the amount of bone you have compared with other people in your age group and of the same size and gender. If this score is unusually high or low, it may indicate a need for further medical tests. Small changes may normally be observed between scans due to differences in positioning and usually are not significant.

Doctors take special care during x-ray exams to use the lowest radiation dose possible while producing the best images for evaluation. National and international radiology protection organizations continually review and update the technique standards radiology professionals use. Modern x-ray systems minimize stray scatter radiation by using controlled x-ray beams and dose control methods.

This ensures that the areas of your body not being imaged receive minimal radiation exposure. Please type your comment or suggestion into the text box below. Note: we are unable to answer specific questions or offer individual medical advice or opinions.

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To locate a medical imaging or radiation oncology provider in your community, you can search the ACR-accredited facilities database. This website does not provide cost information. The costs for specific medical imaging tests, treatments and procedures may vary by geographic region.

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Toggle navigation. What is a bone density Scan? What are some common uses of the procedure? How should I prepare? What does the equipment look like?

How does the procedure work? How is the procedure performed? What will I experience during and after the procedure? Who interprets the results and how will I get them? What are the benefits vs. What are the limitations of a bone density scan?

Bone density testing is strongly recommended if you: are a post-menopausal woman and not taking estrogen. have a personal or maternal history of hip fracture or smoking.

are a post-menopausal woman who is tall over 5 feet 7 inches or thin less than pounds. are a man with clinical conditions associated with bone loss, such as rheumatoid arthritis, chronic kidney or liver disease. use medications that are known to cause bone loss, including corticosteroids such as Prednisone, various anti-seizure medications such as Dilantin and certain barbiturates, or high-dose thyroid replacement drugs.

have type 1 formerly called juvenile or insulin-dependent diabetes, liver disease, kidney disease or a family history of osteoporosis.

Don't let bone loss get so far along that you could have a disabling fracture from a minor fall. Start strengthening your bones with diet and exercise while you're still young.

As you get older, talk to your doctor about bone density scans, and ask whether you need to take medicine if you're at risk for, or are starting to show signs of osteoporosis.

And if your bones aren't as strong as they used to be, avoid falls by wearing shoes that fit well, and clearing clutter on the floor before it can trip you up, and bring you down.

The most common and accurate way uses a dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry DEXA scan. DEXA uses low-dose x-rays. You receive more radiation from a chest x-ray. There is not full agreement on whether men should undergo this type of testing. Some groups recommend testing of men at age 70, while others state that the evidence is not clear enough to say whether men will benefit from screening.

Younger women, as well as men of any age, may also need bone density testing if they have risk factors for osteoporosis. These risk factors include:. With either score, a negative number means you have thinner bones than the comparison group.

The more negative the number, the higher your risk for a bone fracture. Bone mineral density testing does not diagnose fractures. Along with other risk factors you may have, it helps predict your risk for having a bone fracture in the future. Your provider will help you understand the results.

Treatment recommendations depend on your total fracture risk. This risk can be calculated using the FRAX score. Your provider can tell you more about this. You can also find information about FRAX online. Bone mineral density uses a slight amount of radiation.

Most experts feel that the risk is very low compared with the benefits of finding osteoporosis before you break a bone.

Almohaya M, Almehthel M, Kendler D. Dual x-ray absorptiometry and measurement of bone. In: Hochberg MC, Gravallese EM, Smolen JS, van der Heiide D, Weinblatt ME, Weisman MH, eds.

Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; chap Compston JE, McClung MR, Leslie WD. PMID: pubmed. US Preventive Services Task Force; Curry SJ, Krist AH, Owens DK, et al. Screening for osteoporosis to prevent fractures: US Preventive Services Task Force recommendation statement. Weber TJ. Patient education: Bone density testing Beyond the Basics.

Formulary drug information for this topic. No drug references linked in this topic. Find in topic Formulary Print Share. Official reprint from UpToDate ® www. com © UpToDate, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Authors: Joel S Finkelstein, MD Elaine W Yu, MD Section Editor: Clifford J Rosen, MD Deputy Editor: Katya Rubinow, MD.

All topics are updated as new evidence becomes available and our peer review process is complete. Literature review current through: Jan This topic last updated: Sep 29, WHO SHOULD GET BONE DENSITY TESTING?

There are several different types of bone density tests. WHAT TO EXPECT FROM A DXA TEST During dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry DXA , you lie on an examination table. WHAT DO THE RESULTS MEAN?

SUMMARY Bone density tests help health care providers spot bone loss in people who might otherwise have no symptoms. Patient education: Bone density testing The Basics Patient education: Osteoporosis The Basics Patient education: Calcium and vitamin D for bone health The Basics Patient education: Vitamin D deficiency The Basics Patient education: Primary hyperparathyroidism The Basics Patient education: Hip fracture The Basics Patient education: Vertebral compression fracture The Basics Patient education: Cadmium toxicity The Basics Patient education: Medicines for osteoporosis The Basics Beyond the Basics — Beyond the Basics patient education pieces are longer, more sophisticated, and more detailed.

Patient education: Osteoporosis prevention and treatment Beyond the Basics Patient education: Calcium and vitamin D for bone health Beyond the Basics Professional level information — Professional level articles are designed to keep doctors and other health professionals up-to-date on the latest medical findings.

Clinical manifestations, diagnosis, and evaluation of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women Osteoporotic fracture risk assessment Screening for osteoporosis in postmenopausal women and men The following organizations also provide reliable health information.

org , available in English and Spanish [ ]. Incidence and economic burden of osteoporosis-related fractures in the United States, J Bone Miner Res ; Binkley N, Bilezikian JP, Kendler DL, et al. Summary of the International Society For Clinical Densitometry Position Development Conference. Hodgson SF, Watts NB, Bilezikian JP, et al.

American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists medical guidelines for clinical practice for the prevention and treatment of postmenopausal osteoporosis: edition, with selected updates for Endocr Pract ; Raisz LG.

Clinical practice. Screening for osteoporosis. N Engl J Med ; National Osteoporosis Foundation. Clinician's Guide to Prevention and Treatment of Osteoporosis. It does NOT include all information about conditions, treatments, medications, side effects, or risks that may apply to a specific patient.

It is not intended to be medical advice or a substitute for the medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment of a health care provider based on the health care provider's examination and assessment of a patient's specific and unique circumstances.

Patients must speak with a health care provider for complete information about their health, medical questions, and treatment options, including any risks or benefits regarding use of medications.

This information does not endorse any treatments or medications as safe, effective, or approved for treating a specific patient. UpToDate, Inc. and its affiliates disclaim any warranty or liability relating to this information or the use thereof.

All rights reserved. GRAPHICS Bones affected by osteoporosis. The bones in this picture are called "vertebrae. Its spongy center has lots of hard fibers that are connected to each other. The one on the right has osteoporosis. Its spongy center has fewer, thinner fibers that are no longer connected.

The surrounding shell of compact bone is thinner. This makes the vertebra weak. That's why it got crushed under the weight it was holding. Definitions of normal bone density, osteopenia, and osteoporosis. Treatment is not usually recommended for people with normal bone density, although preventive measures eg, calcium supplements, weightbearing exercise are recommended to prevent osteopenia and osteoporosis.

Between —1 and —2. A person with osteopenia does not yet have osteoporosis but is at risk of developing it if not treated. The WHO has defined normal bone density as a value within 1 SD from average peak bone mass. SD is a statistical measure that defines how much a patient's result varies from the "average" young adult.

SD: standard deviation; BMD: bone mineral density; WHO: World Health Organization. Contributor Disclosures Joel S Finkelstein, MD No relevant financial relationship s with ineligible companies to disclose.

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Also, you Carbohydrate Loading avoid wearing boen jewelry or clothes with metal parts, such as bosy or buckles. A bone density scan uses very low doses of radiation. It is safe for most people. But it is not recommended DEXA scan for evaluating bone health in individuals with low body weight pregnant bofy.

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Bone density results are often given in the form of a T score. A T score is a measurement that compares your bone density measurement with the bone density of a healthy year-old.

A low T score means you probably have some bone loss. If your results show you have low bone density, your health care provider will recommend steps to prevent further bone loss.

These may include:. Learn more about laboratory tests, reference ranges, and understanding results. A DEXA scan is the most common way to measure bone density. But your health care provider may order more tests to confirm a diagnosis or to find out if bone loss treatment is working.

The information on this site should not be used as a substitute for professional medical care or advice. Contact a health care provider if you have questions about your health. Bone Density Scan.

What is a bone density scan? What is it used for? A bone density scan is used to: Diagnose osteopenia low bone mass Diagnose osteoporosis Predict risk of future fractures See if treatment for osteoporosis is working.

Why do I need a bone density scan? You may also be at risk for low bone density if you: Have a very low body weight Have had one or more fractures after the age of 50 Have lost a half inch or more in height within one year Are a man over the age of 70 Have a family history of osteoporosis Other risk factors include: Lack of physical activity Smoking cigarettes Heavy drinking Not getting enough calcium and vitamin D in your diet.

What happens during a bone density scan? During a DEXA scan: You will lie on your back on a padded table. You will probably be able to leave your clothes on.

You may need to lie with your legs straight, or you may be asked to rest your legs on a padded platform. A scanning machine will pass over your lower spine and hip. At the same time, another scanning machine called a photon generator will pass beneath you.

The images from the two machines will be combined and sent to a computer. A health care provider will view the images on the computer screen. While the machines are scanning, you will need to stay very still. You may be asked to hold your breath. Will I need to do anything to prepare for the test?

Are there any risks to the test? What do the results mean? Your results may show one of the following: A T score of This is considered normal bone density. A T score between This means you have low bone density osteopenia and may be at risk for developing osteoporosis.

A T score of This means you probably have osteoporosis. These may include: Getting more exercise, with activities such walking, dancing, and using weight machines. Is there anything else I need to know about a bone density scan? References Kaiser Permanente [Internet].

Kaiser Foundation Health Plan Inc; c Bone Density: How It is Done; [cited Aug 24]; [about 6 screens]. hw hw Kaiser Permanente [Internet]. Bone Density: Results; [cited Aug 24]; [about 9 screens]. Bone Density: Risks; [cited Aug 24]; [about 8 screens].

Bone Density: Test Overview; [cited Aug 24]; [about 3 screens]. Bone Density: Why It Is Done; [cited Aug 24]; [about 4 screens]. hw hw Lab Tests Online [Internet].

Washington D. Osteoporosis; [updated Oct 30; cited Apr 13]; [about 2 screens]. Portland ME : Maine Health; c Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research; c— Bone density test: Overview; Sep 7 [cited Apr 13]; [about 3 screens].

Tests for Musculoskeletal Disorders; [updated Mar; cited Apr 13]; [about 2 screens]. Department of Health and Human Services; Get a Bone Density Test; [updated Apr 13; cited Apr 13]; [about 3 screens].

Arlington VA : NOF; c Bethesda MD : U. Department of Health and Human Services; Bone Mass Measurement: What the Numbers Mean; [cited Apr 13]; [about 2 screens]. Gainesville FL : University of Florida Health; c Bone mineral density test: Overview; [updated Apr 13; cited Apr 13]; [about 2 screens].

Rochester NY : University of Rochester Medical Center; c Health Encyclopedia: Bone Density Test; [cited Apr 13]; [about 2 screens].

: DEXA scan for evaluating bone health in individuals with low body weight

Bone Density Test, Osteoporosis Screening & T-score Interpretation	A fragility fracture is any fall from a standing height or less that results in a fracture. Who should have a DEXA bone density test? DXA scans are also interpreted by other physicians such as rheumatologists and endocrinologists. You experienced the onset of menopause before the age of See the Radiation Dose page for more information. This is a very simple test that only takes a few minutes to do.
Evaluation of Bone Health/Bone Density Testing	With either score, a negative DEX means Pre-performance routines have DEXA scan for evaluating bone health in individuals with low body weight bones than the comparison Fasting and gut health. It requires highly trained staff wfight do the weighr properly and a weivht Chromium browser open source to interpret it correctly. Prevent bone loss: While common, fragility fractures increase around age 55 to 60 and rapidly increase in the decades after. In: Goldman L, Schafer AI, eds. After the procedure The procedure typically lasts about minutes. The great thing about the DXA scan is that it requires very minimal preparation. Bone Density: How It is Done; [cited Aug 24]; [about 6 screens].
DAX body composition analysis | Sports Medicine | UC DAvis Health	Larger numbers eg, Scientists discover biological mechanism of hearing loss caused by loud noise — and find a way to prevent it. Prevent bone loss: While common, fragility fractures increase around age 55 to 60 and rapidly increase in the decades after. Conflict of interest policy. This is considered normal bone density. If you have a DXA study done, make sure that your doctor gets the DXA images as well as the actual bone density values. A person may need to change into a hospital gown and remove any metal objects that they are wearing, such as jewelry and eyeglasses.
Popular in: Radiology / Nuclear Medicine	If you're 50 years or older, you may benefit from an assessment of your bone health through a bone density DEXA scan at Advocate Health Care. We help patients detect issues like osteoporosis and avoid future problems like fragility fractures. DEXA is fast, convenient and precise. The process is similar to having an X-ray and takes about 15 minutes. Early detection of osteoporosis is possible. Through a DEXA scan, you can find out whether you have osteoporosis, a "silent disease" that gradually weakens bones and causes them to become brittle and prone to fractures. Early osteoporosis detection will lead to the care you need to stay healthy. Preventing fractures is vital as you age. A DEXA scan can let you know whether you're at risk for fractures, which can be dangerous to your health. For example, approximately 20 percent more women who've suffered hip fractures die within one year of the fracture than those of a similar age who haven't. Call ADVOCATE to schedule an appointment and get a DEXA scan at one of our locations near you. Even low doses of radiation could harm an unborn baby. Be sure to tell your provider if you are pregnant or think you may be pregnant. Bone density results are often given in the form of a T score. A T score is a measurement that compares your bone density measurement with the bone density of a healthy year-old. A low T score means you probably have some bone loss. If your results show you have low bone density, your health care provider will recommend steps to prevent further bone loss. These may include:. Learn more about laboratory tests, reference ranges, and understanding results. A DEXA scan is the most common way to measure bone density. But your health care provider may order more tests to confirm a diagnosis or to find out if bone loss treatment is working. The information on this site should not be used as a substitute for professional medical care or advice. Contact a health care provider if you have questions about your health. Bone Density Scan. What is a bone density scan? What is it used for? A bone density scan is used to: Diagnose osteopenia low bone mass Diagnose osteoporosis Predict risk of future fractures See if treatment for osteoporosis is working. Why do I need a bone density scan? You may also be at risk for low bone density if you: Have a very low body weight Have had one or more fractures after the age of 50 Have lost a half inch or more in height within one year Are a man over the age of 70 Have a family history of osteoporosis Other risk factors include: Lack of physical activity Smoking cigarettes Heavy drinking Not getting enough calcium and vitamin D in your diet. What happens during a bone density scan? During a DEXA scan: You will lie on your back on a padded table. You will probably be able to leave your clothes on. You may need to lie with your legs straight, or you may be asked to rest your legs on a padded platform. A scanning machine will pass over your lower spine and hip. At the same time, another scanning machine called a photon generator will pass beneath you. The images from the two machines will be combined and sent to a computer. A health care provider will view the images on the computer screen. While the machines are scanning, you will need to stay very still. You may be asked to hold your breath. Will I need to do anything to prepare for the test? Athletes can get this scan done if they are curious to track their muscle mass as well as overall fat percentage. Due to its broad uses, the average person who is simply curious about their health could get this scan in order to gain insight regarding their body composition. This will change based on the amount of fat there is as well as the amount of lean mass there is. Fat Mass Index FMI : The total amount of fat you have in kilograms relative to your height in meters 2. It is a measure of how much total fat you have, relative to your size and independent of lean mass. Visceral Adipose Tissue VAT : VAT is a hormonally active component of total body fat. The measurement reflects the amount of internal abdominal fat around the organs. This is different than subcutaneous fat, which lies beneath the skin. Increased VAT has a high correlation to cardiovascular and metabolic disease risk. Current research shows and elevated risk at around cm 2 and. It describes where the fat is stored. Android apple shape refers to having most of the fat around the stomach and mid-section. Gynoid pear shape refers to having the fat stored around the hips. A bigger number means more android and a smaller number means more gynoid. From a health risk standpoint, ideal values are believed to be less than 0. Fat Free Mass Index FFMI : The amount of mass that is not fat, relative to your height. This includes muscle, bone, organs and connective tissue. It can be used to gauge relative muscle mass in lean individuals. Skeletal Muscle Mass SMM : An estimate of the total amount of skeletal muscle you have. Because muscle has approximately the same density as other organs liver, skin, etc… and other types of muscle heart, smooth muscle, etc… we are not able to directly the amount of skeletal muscle you have.