Bone density is an imaging test used to diagnose osteoporosis because it allows you to evaluate a person’s bone density and check if the number has been lost, so this test is indicated by your doctor when the person has certain risk factors that can lead to osteoporosis, such as menopause, aging, and physical inactivity.
It is a simple and painless test that does not require preparation by fasting, it should only be indicated if you are taking medication or if you have performed a contrast test in the 3 days prior to the densitometric examination.
- Bone densitometry is considered the primary test for bone loss and the diagnosis of diseases such as osteopenia and osteoporosis.
- So your doctor indicates that this test will be done when the person has a risk factor that results in a reduction in bone mass.
- Such as:.
Aging;
Postmenopausal women;
Family history of osteopenia or osteoporosis;
Frequent use of corticosteroids;
Primary hyperparathyroidism;
The habit of tobacco;
Gastrointestinal diseases or kidney stones;
High caffeine consumption
Nutritional deficiencies
If the test identifies a loss of bone density, your doctor may indicate certain strategies to prevent bone mass from running out and increase the risk of fractures, in addition to this, it will be used to accompany the person’s evolution once treatment has started.
Densitometry is a simple scan and to find out how it is possible to leave the patient more relaxed during the scan, the bone density is painless, lasts between 10 and 15 minutes and is performed with the patient leaning on a stretcher, who must remain motionless until the device records radiological images of his body.
Despite being simple, this test should not be done on embarrassed women, obese people who have had a contrast test 3 days before the densitometry test, as this could interfere with the test result.
The result of osteodensitmetry is indicated by scores that indicate the level of calcium present in those that are:
1. Z-score: indicated in younger person, the possibility of the person suffering a fracture is considered and this can be interpreted as follows:
Value up to 1: Normal result
Debit value of 1 bid – 2. 5: indicates osteopenia.
Value per debate – 2. 5: indicates osteoporosis.
2. Score T: is best suited for tall people or postmenopausal women, who are less likely to develop osteoporosis, and could be:
Highest value in 0: Normal
Value up to -1: limit.
Loss value of -1: indicates osteoporosis.
Bone densitometry should be performed at least once a year by women over 65 years of age and men over 70 years of age and periodically according to medical advice, in people diagnosed with osteopenia or osteoporosis should be performed to verify the response to treatment.