Who Should Get a Bone Density Scan?

Osteoporosis Slideshow Lower Your Risk of Osteporosis Slideshow

Medical Author: Melissa Stoppler, MD
Medical Editor: William C. Shiel Jr., MD, FACP, FACR

Bone density testing is used to assess the strength of the bones and the probability of fracture in persons at risk for osteoporosis. The test, referred to as bone densitometry or bone mineral density scan (BMD), is a simple, noninvasive procedure that takes just minutes.

Unlike a bone scan, bone densitometry testing does not involve the administration of radioactive contrast material into the bloodstream. The most commonly used test is known as a dual energy x-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) scan, and it can be performed with devices that measure bone density in the hip and spine, or smaller peripheral devices to measure bone density in the wrist, heel, or finger. The central bone density device is used in hospitals and medical offices, while the smaller peripheral device is available in some drugstores and in screening sites in the community. The DEXA scan involves a much smaller radiation exposure than a standard chest x-ray.

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. 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
• Vitamin D deficiency, which can occur as a result of certain medical conditions
• Excessive alcohol or caffeine consumption
• Weight loss or low body weight; small-boned body frame
• Early menopause or late onset of menstrual periods
• Physical inactivity
• Taking a medication [such as prednisone or phenytoin, (Dilantin)] known to cause bone loss
• Low estrogen levels
• Hyperparathyroidism
• Hyperthyroidism

Your bone density measurement will be compared to the average peak bone density of young adults of the same sex and race. The results are usually reported as a "T score" and a "Z score." The T score compares your bone density with that of healthy young women, while the Z score is a comparison of your bone density with that of other people of the same age, gender, and race.

In either the T or Z score, a negative number means you have thinner bones than the standard. The more negative the number, the greater the degree of bone loss.

Osteoporosis is defined as the beginning of bone loss and corresponds to a T score of -1 to -2.5. A T score lower than -2.5 is indicative of osteoporosis.

For more information, please read the following MedicineNet articles:

• Bone Density Scan
• Osteoporosis Risk Factors
• Osteoporosis