BONE DENSITOMETRY


Bone Densitometry is a type of imaging examination that measures the bone mineral density or the strength of your bones. During a bone densitometry test, density measures are taken of bones at specific areas of your body. The measurements then are compared to a database of "normal" individuals of your same age, sex, and race. The results show whether you have lost bone density. The measurements also help determine the presence of osteoporosis and can be used to estimate your risk of bone fracture. This test assists physicians in making diagnosis, fracture risk assessments and monitoring response to therapy.

What is Osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis is a silent progressive disease characterized by decreased bone density with no symptoms until fractures occur. Postmenopausal women are most prone to osteoporosis.

Procedure
Before the examination, a technologist will ask you several questions about your medical history. You will need to bring a list of all your medications and the dosage. You will be allowed to stay in your clothes but it is recommended that you not wear clothing with a metal zipper or buttons. The technologist will position you on a padded table and then scan your spine and hip area. The procedure will take approximately 25 minutes. A detailed report will then be sent to your physician after it has been interpreted by our radiologist.

Osteoporosis Risk Factors

  • Female and older than age 50

  • Family history of fractures

  • Early menopause

  • Diet low in calcium

  • Thin and small framed

Indications for Bone Densitometry

  • Osteopenia on routine x-ray, and thus, need for confirmation of the subjective suspicion of low bone mass.

  • When assistance is needed in making a decision regarding HRT or other nonhormonal therapy.

  • Glucocorticoid therapy or Cushing's syndrome

  • Primary hyperparathyroidism, to assist with decisions regarding surgical intervention

  • Premature menopause or prolonged periods of amenorrhea, for example, anorexia nervosa, bulimia, and elite female athletes

  • After organ transplantation

  • Maternal history of fracture

  • Prolonged immobilization

  • Renal failure - to monitor the effects of excess parathyroid hormone

  • Liver disease

  • Excess thyroid hormone production or administration

  • Malabsorption syndromes

  • Height loss greater than 4 cm

  • Weight loss greater than 5 kg

  • Rheumatoid arthritis, even without glucocorticoid therapy

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