Bone Densitometry

Bone Densitometry

Bone density scanning, also called dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA or DEXA) or bone densitometry, is an enhanced form of x-ray technology that is used to measure bone loss.

DEXA is today's established standard for measuring bone mineral density (BMD). DEXA bone densitometry is most often used to diagnose osteoporosis, a condition that often affects women after menopause but may also be found in men. Osteoporosis involves a gradual loss of calcium, causing the bones to become thinner, more fragile and more likely to break. The DEXA test can also assess an individual’s risk for developing fractures. This examination is usually done on an outpatient basis.

 See Radiologyinfo.org, Bone Density Scan.