Bone mineral density (BMD) is known as the amount of bone mineral found in bone tissue. Although the concept refers to bone density in the physics sense, We can measure it clinically by using a proxy based on optical density per square meter of the bone’s surface. In clinical medicine, bone density is an indirect indicator of osteoporosis or fracture risk.
Densitometry is the method of measuring bone density. It’s often in radiology or nuclear medicine departments at hospitals and clinics. It is noninvasive, painless, and requires low radiation exposure. Most commonly, measurements are on the lumbar spine or the upper portion of the hip. If the hip or lumbar spine is not accessible, the forearm can be scanned.
Poor bone density is associated with a greater chance of fracture. Falls-related fractures of the pelvis and legs can be a serious public health problem for elderly women, especially in older women. To screen for osteoporosis risk, bone density measurements are to take place.
What is osteoporosis?
An osteoporosis test is a way to determine if your bones are healthy. This condition causes bones to be more fragile and more susceptible to breaking.
Using X-rays, this test measures how many grams of calcium and other bone minerals are contained in a bone segment. Most bones tests occur in the hip, spine, and forearm.
Does bone density affect weight?
Bodyweight directly correlates with bone mineral density (BMD). However, high body weight can also a caused by increased physical activity or obesity. Both will increase BMD. But, there is growing evidence that excess weight is harmful to bone and fracture risk. OP people will be lighter because their bones are less dense. A person with OP will have a lower bone density because they are overweight; This can signify that the lower body has good bone density, while the upper body might have weaker bones.
What is the Bone Density Test?
To determine bone density, doctors use:
- Before you cut a bone, identify any decreases in bone density.
- Find out your risk of breaking bones (fractures).
- Confirm the diagnosis of osteoporosis
- Keep an eye on osteoporosis treatment
Your bones will be denser if you have a higher bone mineral content. The stronger your bones are, the less likely they will break.
Bone scans do not include bone density tests. Bone scans are done by injecting the bone beforehand; They can detect fractures, cancer, and other abnormalities in bones.
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- Loss of height. Individuals who have lost more than 1.5 inches (3.8 cm) in size could have compression fractures in the spines. This is a common reason for osteoporosis.
- I have broken a bone. Fragility cracks are when a bone is more fragile than it should be. A strong cough or sneezing can sometimes cause fractures.
- You are taking certain drugs; This can cause osteoporosis.
- A drop in hormone levels. Treatments for prostate cancer can reduce testosterone levels in men. Lower levels of sex hormones can weaken bones.
Types of Bone Density Tests:
Although there are many types and methods of BMD testing, none are invasive. BMD tests can vary depending on which bones were in use to determine the result.
These tests include:
- Dual-energy dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry
- Dual X-ray Absorptiometry & Laser (DLX).
- Quantitative computed tomography
- Quantitative ultrasound
- Single-photon absorptiometry
- Dual photon absorptiometry
- Digital X-ray radiogrammetry (XDR).
- Single-energy X-ray absorptiometry – SEXA
DXA remains the most popular, but quantitative ultrasonography (QUS) is cheaper and more efficient to measure bone density. DXA is a test that measures the density of a particular bone or group of bones. It usually measures the spine, hip, wrist, and ankle. The average index, which is calculated based on gender, age, and size, then compares the density of these bones to determine how similar they are. The use of results is to determine the risk of fractures in an individual and the level of osteoporosis.
BMC / W = Average Bone Mineral Density
BMC = bone mineral content = g/cm
W = The width at the scanning line
Risks in it:
There are some limitations to bone density testing:
- There are differences in testing methods. These devices measure the density of the spine and hip bones, but they cost more than those that measure the thickness of the peripheral bones (forearm, finger, or heel).
- Previous spinal issues. Test results might not be correct for people with structural abnormalities in the spines, such as severe arthritis or previous spinal surgery.
- Radiation exposure. Bone density testing uses X-rays, but the radiation exposure is typically shallow. Pregnant women should avoid these tests.
- Insufficient information. A bone sensitivity test can confirm low bone density but not explain why. You will need a complete medical exam to answer this question.
- We have limited insurance coverage. Ask your insurance provider before you ask if the test is covered.
What can you do to prepare?
Tests for bone density are quick, painless, and straightforward. There is virtually no requirement for preparation.
Tell the doctor immediately if you have had a barium test or contrast material injected—nuclear medicine or scan. Your bone density test may be affected by other materials.
Food and medication:
Do not take calcium supplements for 24 hours before your bone density test.
Personal and clothing items:
Avoid wearing tight, loose clothing, and don’t wear buttons, belts, or zippers. You can leave your jewelry at home. Also, take out all metal objects from your pockets. Keys, money clips, and change are best left behind. You may ask to wear an examination gown at some facilities.
What can you expect?
Bone density tests are typically on the bones most susceptible to breaking because of osteoporosis.
- Lower spine bones (lumbar vertebrae)
- Your hip joint is next to the narrow neck of your leg bone (femur).
- Bones in your forearm
A hospital will likely perform a bone density test on you. This involves lying on a platform where a mechanical arm moves over your body. You feel to much less radiation than you would get from a chest X-ray. It usually takes 10 to 30 minutes.
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A portable, small machine that measures bone density can be used to measure the distance between your bones, such as your heel, wrist, and finger. These instruments are known as peripheral devices, often at health fairs.
A measurement at your heel is not as reliable as one taken at your spine, hip, or spine. This is because bone density can vary between individuals. If your peripheral device test is positive, your doctor may recommend that you have a scan of the spine or hip to confirm the diagnosis.
Results:
Two numbers are there to report the results of your bone density test: Z-score or T-score.
T-score:
Your T-score measures your bone density concerning what you expect for a young adult. Your T-score refers to the number of units (or standard deviations) that your bone density is higher or lower than the average.
T-score what does your score mean?
- -1 and higher bone density is considered normal.
- Between -1 to -2.5 scores may indicate osteopenia (low bone density) and lead to osteoporosis.
- -2.5 and Below bone density is a sign that you may have osteoporosis.
Z-score:
Your Z-score refers to the standard deviation above or below the norm for an individual of your age, gender, weight, ethnic, or racial background. You may need to take further tests if your Z-score is significantly lower or higher than the average.
How to Prevent poor Bone Density?
It is important to have enough calcium and vitamin D to prevent low bone density. Walking, running, dancing, and hiking are all weight-bearing activities. You can often accomplish resistance exercises by lifting weights. To maintain or improve bone density, other therapies such as estrogens (e.g., estradiol, conjugated estrogens) select estrogen receptor modulators (e.g., raloxifene and bazedoxifene), and bisphosphonates (e.g., alendronic acid, risedronate Acid), may also be useful.
References:
DIGI HEALTH BOX avoids using tertiary references. We have strict sourcing guidelines and rely on peer-reviewed studies, academic research from medical associations and institutions. To ensure the accuracy of articles in DIGI HEALTH BOX, you can read more about the editorial process here.
- Bone+Density at the US National Library of Medicine Medical Subject Headings (MeSH)
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