Osteoperosis Evaluation with DEXA Scan

Osteoporosis is a very common condition among older individuals, particularly older women. As we age, we lose bone density and our bones become fragile. This process is accelerated in women after menopause. In people with osteoporosis, a relatively minor fall or other accident can lead to painful and disabling fractures of the spine, hip, and other sites.

Now that effective medical therapy is available, diagnosing osteoporosis has become the important first step to controlling or reversing the condition before the patient suffers from a fracture.

Bone Densitometry or DEXA (Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry) is the best way to diagnose and evaluate the degree of osteoporosis. Scanning is performed of the lumbar spine and of one hip. The bone densities are calculated and graphed relative to normal control data. Those with bone densities significantly lower (more than 2.5 SD) than the average bone density of a young adult are diagnosed with osteoporosis. A more moderate degree of osteoporosis is called osteopenia.

More information about Osteoporosis can be obtained by visiting the website of the National Osteoporosis Foundation.

Bone Densitometry / DEXA Scan is available at SDI Diagnostic Imaging in Oldsmar as well as at St. Joseph's Women's Hospital and St. Joseph's Diagnostic Centers.