Bone Densitometry: Applications and Limitations

摘要: Abstract Osteoporosis is clinically diagnosed in its advanced stages, usually following a fracture. Accurate, precise, and noninvasive skeletal assessment now possible for early detection of osteoporosis at preclinical stage. Currently, the gold standard bone mass measurement fracture prediction dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) hip spine. Exponential increases risk have been observed with small decreases mineral density. Bone density BMD should be considered conjunction independent clinical factors fracture, including: low body weight, history postmenopausal family poor neuromuscular function. The World Health Organization (WHO) diagnostic criteria osteopenia are appropriate Caucasian women applicable to DEXA assessments hip, spine, or forearm. This review explores relationship between risk, principles densitometry interpretation, applications as well limitations technology, presents cases illustrating common errors seen interpretation studies.