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These tests measure the mineral density in bones and can provide a diagnosis of osteoporosis before the bones become so weak that they break. With early detection a treatment plan can be initiated to minimize further bone loss and to strengthen bone tissue.
There are two types of bone mineral density (BMD) scans: - Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry (DEXA) Scan. Currently the most accurate test available.
- Peripheral Bone Density Testing. Also known as bone sonometer. The devices are commonly used in large-scale osteoporosis screenings at local drugstores or similar venues. However, they are not as accurate as a DEXA scan because bone density can vary throughout the body and peripheral bone density tests only measure density in a specific area. They can miss signs of osteoporosis in those skeletal sites that are particularly prone to bone loss such as the hips, spine, and wrist. In fact, the spine is often the first site to suffer a loss in bone density.
Function; Reasons For Use
DEXA uses only one-tenth the radiation of standard X-ray. While the patient rests on a padded table, an X-ray scanning machine moves over the body and captures images of the hip, spine, or entire body. The scan takes about 20 minutes to complete.
Peripheral Bone Density Tests measure BMD in less than a minute by passing sound waves through a wrist, finger, or heel. Peripheral bone density tests are performed with portable devices that make measuring BMD convenient and inexpensive.
In general, this testing is recommended for women 65 and older along with younger postmenopausal women who have further risk factors for osteoporosis, including:- A history of bone fractures as an adult or having a close relative with a history of bone fractures
- Smoking
- Excessive alcohol or caffeine consumption
- Weight loss or low body weight
- Early menopause or late onset of menstrual periods
- Physical inactivity
- Taking a medication that is known to cause bone loss
- Low estrogen levels
- Hyperthyroidism
Directions
Neither test requires any special preparation. Unlike a bone scan, bone density testing does not involve the administration of radioactive contrast material into the bloodstream.
Expected Outcome; Side-Effects
The results of a DEXA scan are compared to the "normal" range for people of the same age, sex and race, and to the maximum bone density possible (found in young adults).
Both tests are painless, noninvasive, and have no side-effects.
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Bone Density Scan can help with the following: | | | | | Musculo-Skeletal |  Osteoporosis - Osteopenia | A bone density scan can indicate what your current bone mineral density is. Repeated scans (a year or two apart) can tell if you are gaining, losing or just maintaining bone.
A new urine test utilizes the two most specific markers of bone resorption - the collagen crosslinks pyridinium/pyridinoline (PYD) and deoxypyridinium/deoxypyridinoline (DPYD or DPD) - to identify elevated levels of bone loss before excessive damage occurs. This profile enables regular testing of women for resorption rates, allowing treatment intervention at its most effective - before bone loss has occurred. It also allows easy and rapid monitoring of treatment effectiveness. As valuable as bone scan results can be in the definitive diagnosis of osteoporosis, the evaluation cannot be performed often enough for patients who are losing bone at a fast rate.
In premenopausal women, estrogen produced in the body maintains bone density. Following the onset of menopause, bone loss increases each year and can result in a total loss of 25-30% of bone density in the first five to ten years after menopause. Your doctor can help you decide when and if you need a bone density test. |
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KEY | | Highly recommended |
GLOSSARY
Collagen
The primary protein within white fibers of connective tissue and the organic substance found in tendons, ligaments, cartilage, skin, teeth and bone.
Estrogen (Oestrogen)
One of the female sex hormones produced by the ovaries.
Hyperthyroidism (Hyperthyroid)
An abnormal condition of the thyroid gland resulting in excessive secretion of thyroid hormones characterized by an increased metabolism and weight loss.
Menopause (Menopausal)
The cessation of menstruation (usually not official until 12 months have passed without periods), occurring at the average age of 52. As commonly used, the word denotes the time of a woman's life, usually between the ages of 45 and 54, when periods cease and any symptoms of low estrogen levels persist, including hot flashes, insomnia, anxiety, mood swings, loss of libido and vaginal dryness. When these early menopausal symptoms subside, a woman becomes postmenopausal.
Menstruation (Menses, Menstrual, Menstrual Cycle, Menstrual Cycles, Menstrual Flow, Menstrual Phase, Monthly Cycle)
The periodic discharge of blood, tissue fluid and mucus from the endometrium (lining of the uterus) that usually lasts from 3 - 5 days. It is caused by a sudden reduction in estrogens and progesterone.
Mineral (Minerals)
Plays a vital role in regulating many body functions. They act as catalysts in nerve response, muscle contraction and the metabolism of nutrients in foods. They regulate electrolyte balance and hormonal production, and they strengthen skeletal structures.
Osteoporosis
A disease in which bone tissue becomes porous and brittle. The disease primarily affects postmenopausal women.
Postmenopause (Postmenopausal)
The postmenopausal phase of a woman's life begins when 12 full months have passed since the last menstrual period and any menopausal symptoms have become milder and/or less frequent.
Premenopause (Premenopausal)
The period when women of childbearing age experience relatively normal reproductive function (including regular periods).
X-rays (X-ray)
High-energy radiation used to take pictures of areas inside the body.
Last updated: Apr 13, 2008
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