Bone Densitometry /Dexascan
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I get more information about bone measurements and osteoporosis?
The National Osteoporosis Foundation (NOF) is one of the leading sources of information about osteoporosis and bone measurements. The NOF recommends women have bone density test if you are:
~ Over 65 years old
~ Postmenopausal
- with a >1 risk factor
- with a fracture
~ Considering osteoporosis therapy
~ On prolonged hormone replacement therapy
The NOF recommends treatment if you have:
- a T-score < -1.5 with risk factors
- a T-score <-2.0 with no risk factors
- had a fracture and are post menopausal
Like other organs in the body, bones are constantly changing.
Throughout childhood and as young adults, bones grow in strength and in size. Around the age of 30, bones reach their peak strength and then natrually become weaker with age. Osteoporosis is a condition where bones become weak to the point of breaking.
Is the test safe?
Even though x-rays are used, the amount absorbed by the patient is only about 1/10th of that received from a chest x-ray. Other x-ray procedures have even higher x-ray doses. The x-ray dose from the bone densitometry test is comparable to the natrually occurring radiation you are exposed to in one week.
Caution: Even though the x-ray dose from the bone densitometry test is very low, please inform the operator if you are pregnant or might be pregnant before your test!
How does the densitometer work?
A bone densitometer measures bone mineral density (BMD). The amount of bone mineral relates directly to bone strength. The bone densitometer uses small amounts of x-ray to measure BMD and to produce images of the spine, hip, or even the whole body. The technical term for the method is "dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry", or DXA. The spine and hip are measured because that is where most osteoporotic fractures occur.
What can I expect during my bone densitometry test?
The bone densitometer is a large, padded and comfortable examination table. You will be asked to lie on your back, remaining in your normal clothing in most cases. Belt buckles, metal or thick plastic buttons and metal jewelry will need to be removed from the region being examined. The operator will postition your arms and legs for the test, which is painless and typically takes on to ten minutes. You just need to lie still and breathe normally.
How do I know if I have Osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis is often called the "silent disease". There are rarely signs until a lot of bone has been lost. Vivible symptoms may include a loss of height along with curvature of the upper back. Osteoporosis also can result in a crippling painful fracture, occurring most often in the hip, back, or wrist.
Important risk factors for osteoporosis include:
-- female
--Caucasian
--advanced age
--history of bone fracture
--small, thin frame
--family history of osteoporosis
--removal of the ovaries
--early menopause
--a low calcium diet
--lack of exercise
--eating disorders
--certain medicines (such as steroids or anticonvulsants)
--alcohol and tobacco use
Contact the NOF at:
National Osteoporosis Foundation
1150 17t St. NW Suite 500
Washington, D.C. 20036-4603
(202)223-2226
www.nof.org