Dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) is a test that measures the density (or thickness) of your bones.
The DEXA scan is an x-ray scan that uses a small amount of radiation to take pictures of different bones. These pictures are used to measure the density of the bones at the spine, hip, forearm. It can also take pictures of other bones such as a finger or the heel bone. Measurements of the spine and hip are called central DXA. Those done on the arms or legs are called peripheral DXA. In some cases, your doctor may order a whole body scan.
This test will help your doctor assess the density of your bones. It will help determine if you have osteoporosis , a bone-thinning disease. This information may be used to predict your risk of bone fractures.
Osteoporosis
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An x-ray uses radiation to make images. The low levels of radiation from a single x-ray will not effect most people. If you are pregnant or think you may be pregnant talk to your doctor before the x-ray. Radiation may be harmful to developing babies.
Central DXA measures bone density in the hip and spine. You will be asked to lie on a table. Your position will depend on the area being examined. You will be asked to hold still and may be asked to hold your breath while the X-ray is taken. The X-ray will be taken and sent to a computer monitor.
Peripheral DXA measures bone density in the finger, hand, forearm, or foot. The area being examined will be placed in a small device. The device will provide a bone density reading in a few minutes.
You will be able to leave after the test is done.
About 10 minutes
No
The test results are usually available within a few days. Your test results will show two types of scores:
These test results will help your doctor determine your risk for bone fractures.
RESOURCES:
The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons
http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/
National Osteoporosis Foundation
http://www.nof.org/
References:
Bone density scan. RadiologyInfo.org website. Available at: http://www.radiologyinfo.org/en/info.cfm?pg=dexa&bhcp=1 . Updated April 12, 2012. Accessed December 3, 2012.
National Osteoporosis Foundation. Clinician's Guide to Prevention and Treatment of Osteoporosis. Washington, DC: National Osteoporosis Foundation, 2010. Available at: http://www.nof.org/files/nof/public/content/file/344/upload/159.pdf . Accessed December 3, 2012.
Osteoporosis. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: http://www.ebscohost.com/dynamed . Updated November 5, 2012. Accessed December 3, 2012.
Osteoporosis: bone density tests. Am Acad Orthop Surg Bull . 1999;47(3).
Sartoris D, Dalinka MK, Alazraki N. Osteoporosis and bone mass measurement. Radiology . 2000;215(suppl):397-414.
Last reviewed November 2012 by Brian Randall, MD
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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