DEXA aids in diagnosis of osteoporosis
Considered the most accurate, advanced bone densitometry technique available, dual energy x-ray absorptiometry, or DEXA, uses small amounts of radiation to measure the density of sites where osteoporosis-related fractures occur most often including the spine and hip. During the exam, patients lie still on a padded scanning bed while images are taken. The results of the test are then compared to a reference population on factors including age, weight, height and ethnic background to determine your bone status and fracture risk. The test is also used to monitor people under treatment of osteoporosis. It may be repeated to determine the bone loss rate or the effectiveness of treatment over time.
The test is a good way to find out if you have osteoporosis, a disease that weakens bones by causing them to become more porous and makes them brittle. While healthy bones are dense and strong, osteoporosis makes bones so fragile that they are more likely to break.
Find out more
Read our Fast Facts for answers to your questions.
- What will my bone densitometry be like?
- How do I prepare for a bone densitometry?
- What are the symptoms of osteoporosis?
- Can osteoporosis be prevented?
- What are common risk factors for osteoporosis?
