Bone Densitometry (Dexa)

What Is Bone Densitometry (DEXA)? Its Importance for Bone Health

The condition of bone health is important for quality of life. Especially as age advances, problems may also arise in bone health. Measuring bone mineral density is important for determining the state of your bone health and for intervening in possible future problems. Bone Densitometry, known as DEXA, is considered one of the most reliable methods for measuring bone mineral density.

The questions “What is bone densitometry, how is it performed, and why is it critical in diagnosing diseases such as osteoporosis?” are among the most frequently asked topics.

In this article, you can find all the details aimed at protecting bone health, from the postmenopausal period to metabolic diseases, from age-related bone loss to medication monitoring.

Daviva Health Group aims to ensure the accurate management of the diagnosis and treatment process by precisely analyzing even the smallest changes in bone density during Bone Densitometry scans.

What Is Densitometry?

Densitometry is a medical test that measures bone density. It is generally used to diagnose osteoporosis or osteopenia, or to determine the risk of these conditions.

Bone Densitometry typically uses a dual-energy X-ray type to obtain images of the bones in the lower back and hip area. The results of Bone Densitometry (DEXA) measurements allow assessment of bone strength and also guide the reduction of fracture risk and the taking of preventive measures.

How Is Bone Densitometry Performed?

• You do not need to wear special clothing during a Bone Densitometry scan. However, try to avoid wearing clothing with a lot of metal in it.
• During a DEXA, that is, densitometry scan, you should lie on your back on the X-ray table. You may be asked to remain still so that clear images can be obtained.
• To measure bone density, the device’s scanning arm will pass over your body.
• Measurements are usually taken in the areas where fractures are most common: the lower back, spine, and hip. However, measurements can also be taken from different parts of the body.
• As the device’s arm passes over your body, a narrow beam made of low-dose X-rays will be directed at the area being examined.
• The images obtained can be sent to a computer and viewed on a screen.

In Which Cases Is Bone Densitometry Used?

Osteoporosis: Bone Densitometry is one of the main methods used to diagnose osteoporosis, known in the public as bone loss, and to determine risk factors. This method, which measures bone strength and density, helps with the early diagnosis of osteoporosis, characterized by weak, fragile, and fracture-prone bones. It also plays a critical role in determining the treatment plan and process to be applied.

Osteopenia: This is a condition in which bone mineral density is low. It can be defined as the precursor stage of osteoporosis. Bone Densitometry is performed to assess the severity of bone mass, determine the future risk of fractures, and guide early intervention to prevent progression to osteoporosis. The T-score in measurements is important in distinguishing between osteoporosis and osteopenia.

Osteomalacia: Osteomalacia is a condition caused by severe vitamin D deficiency. Because the bones soften, bone pain and fractures are among its most common symptoms. DEXA measurement is performed to assess the severity of bone loss. The results both show the risk of fracture and help determine the form of treatment.

Hyperparathyroidism: This is a condition in which the parathyroid glands in the neck become overactive and secrete too much parathyroid hormone into the blood. This can cause the bones to become weak and brittle. Bone Densitometry measurement is a critical diagnostic tool in hyperparathyroidism.

Paget’s Disease: This is a chronic disorder characterized by old bone tissue being replaced by abnormally large but weak new bone tissue. In Paget’s disease, DEXA measurement is performed to monitor treatment effectiveness and manage complications.

Cortisone use: Long-term or high-dose steroid use significantly increases the risk of bone loss and fractures, often before symptoms appear. Bone Densitometry measurement may be performed to determine bone density.

Who Should Undergo Bone Densitometry?

• Women over 65 and men over 70 should undergo DEXA measurement.
• Women under 65 with risk factors such as a family history of fractures or early menopause are recommended to have Bone Densitometry.
• Adults over 50 who have experienced a bone fracture even after minor trauma should undergo DEXA measurement for follow-up purposes.
• Anyone with conditions affecting bone health, such as rheumatoid arthritis, kidney disease, or hyperthyroidism, should have a DEXA measurement.
• Those who use medications that weaken bones for a long time are also in a risk group in terms of bone health. They need to have a DEXA measurement.

What Are the Advantages of Bone Densitometry (DEXA)?

• It can detect even the smallest decreases in bone density. This makes it possible to diagnose osteoporosis and osteopenia before fractures occur.
• It is one of the most effective supports for the early detection of possible fracture risk.
• It is a procedure that does not require anesthesia. Although X-rays are used, the amount of radiation the patient is exposed to is lower than even that of an X-ray.
• It is possible to monitor the effectiveness of the treatment applied regarding bone density with DEXA.
• It is a fast method, as the scan takes between 10 and 20 minutes.

What Are the Disadvantages of Bone Densitometry (DEXA)?

• Bone Densitometry measures bone density. However, it does not measure bone quality or structural strength. In other words, bones that are of normal density but may still be fragile are not identified.
• Although the amount of radiation the patient is exposed to during imaging is very low, its use is not recommended in pregnant women.
• Results may not be as expected in obese individuals; the patient should consult their doctor about this.
• DEXA cannot be performed immediately after barium studies or other radioactive contrast studies.
• It is recommended that Bone Densitometry be performed by specialized teams in fully equipped centers.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT BONE DENSITOMETRY (DEXA)

What Do T-Score and Z-Score Mean?

The terms T-score and Z-score are used when reporting Bone Densitometry results.

The T-score compares your bone mineral density with that of a healthy young adult of the same sex (aged 25-35). Based on the results of this comparison, the risk of fractures in the bones is determined.

• A T-score of -1 means normal bone density
• A T-score between -1 and -2.5 means the beginning of bone loss, that is, osteopenia
• A T-score of -2.5 and below means a diagnosis of osteoporosis.

The Z-score compares your bone mineral density with the average bone density of people of the same age and sex.

• If the Z-score is below -2.0, it means the bone density is low for your age.
• If the Z-score is above -2.0, it means your bone density is normal for your age.

How Often Should Bone Density Measurement Be Performed?

Bone density measurements are generally repeated every 2 years for monitoring purposes. However, how often a DEXA scan is performed may vary depending on medication use or previous results.

The intervals for Bone Densitometry (DEXA) scans are generally as follows.

• Patients receiving osteoporosis treatment who use high-dose steroids are considered high risk. In these individuals, it is recommended to repeat scans every 1-2 years in order to assess treatment effectiveness and bone loss.
• Osteopenia patients considered to be in the moderate-risk group should repeat DEXA scans every 2-5 years.
• In people whose values are within normal limits, the scan interval can be 10-15 years.

Will I Receive Too Much Radiation During Bone Densitometry?

X-rays are used in DEXA scans. However, the amount of radiation the patient is exposed to is very low. Medical studies determine this radiation rate to be one-tenth of the radiation exposure during X-ray imaging. In general, it is defined as a safe test.

Will the DEXA Test Hurt?

DEXA scans are completely painless and do not cause pain.