DEXA Bone Density
What Is a Bone Density Scan?
Just as in a common X-ray, a bone density scan is a painless medical test that physicians primarily use for the diagnosis and treatment of osteoporosis. It involves exposing the part of the body being examined to a small amount of ionizing radiation to form pictures of the body.
Common Uses of this Procedure
A DEXA bone densitometry test is most often used to aid in the diagnosis of osteoporosis and other conditions that cause bone loss. It is also a very useful tool for evaluating the effects that treatment has had on those conditions.
Osteoporosis is a gradual loss of calcium from the bones, which causes them to become less dense and therefore more fragile and much easier to break.
Your Physician May Order a Bone Density Test If :
- you have had X-rays showing vertebral fracture
- you have been diagnosed with osteoporosis
- you are a post-menopausal woman, not on estrogen therapy
- you are a post-menopausal woman who is taller than 5'7" and/or less than 125 pounds
- you have a personal history of smoking or a family history of hip fracture
- you have a thyroid or parathyroid condition
- you have type 1 diabetes, kidney disease, or liver disease
- you are a man with medical conditions known to cause bone loss
- you have high levels of collagen in urine specimens
How Should I Prepare?
- Women should always tell their x - ray technologist or physician if there is a possibility of pregnancy.
- If you have had a barium x-ray exam, CT scan, radioisotope injection, or if you have been injected with any contrast material (used for testing purposes), you should make your physician aware. You may be required to wait 10 - 14 days before your bone density procedure.
- Do not take calcium supplements for a minimum of 24 hours before your scheduled test.
- Wear comfortable clothing that is free of any metal objects and that is easy to change if you are asked to wear a gown.
- You may be asked to remove your jewelry and eyeglasses before your exam.