Bone Densitometry Testing
What is Bone Densitometry Testing? 
Bone Densitometry Testing uses small amounts of radiation to determine the density of spine, hip, wrist, and other bones. Unlike x-rays, which cannot reveal a potential problem until the patient has lost at least 30% of bone mass, bone densitometry can detect significant changes in bone mass in early stages.
Bone Densitometry Testing is safe, fast, non-invasive, and painless. It exposes a patient to less radiation than a standard chest or dental x-ray- it's closer to the amount you'd be exposed to on a cross-country airline flight. You won't need to drink or be injected with any radioactive liquids (like for a PET scan or a bone scan), and you won't be in an enclosed space (like for an MRI).
Bone Densitometry is NOT the same as a bone scan. A bone density test is faster and requires no special preparatory drinks, medicines, or injections.
As with most other medical procedures, inform your doctor before the test if you are pregnant.
Why should I get a Bone Densitometry Test?
- It can help confirm a doctor's diagnosis of osteoporosis before a bone break occurs.
- It can detect low bone mass before osteoporosis develops.
- It can monitor treatment of bone density over time.
- It can estimate the risk of future breaks.
- It can assess possible effects of gluco-corticoid therapy and hyperthyroidism on bone density.
What happens at a Bone Densitometry Test?
The exam is simple and painless. The bone densitometer looks like a large examination table, and it is padded and comfortable. During the exam, you will be asked to lie on the table and breathe normally while a scanner arm will pass over your spine or hips. The whole test typically takes about fifteen minutes.
What does my score mean?
The bone mineral density reading is turned into a T-score which compares your bone mineral density to a 30-year-old's, which is the approximate age of your best bone density in your lifetime, according to the World Health Organization.
If you are -1 or above, your bone density is considered to be normal.
If you are -1 to -2.5, you are in the osteopenic category, which means you are in the early stages of bone thinning.
If you are -2.5 or less, you are in the osteoporosis category.
You should see your primary care doctor if your score is -1 or lower for a comprehensive evaluation.