Overview
Bone Mineral Density test help experts to measure the amount of minerals in bones. It is the only way other than broken bone to know if the person has osteoporosis.
Osteoporosis is a bone disease that progresses silently, making bones weak and thin. It leads to bone tissue frail over time and result in disabling fractures.
Who should take test?
Anyone can fall to be a victim to Osteoporosis. But the chances are more amongst
All women over the age of 65
A family history of osteoporosis
Chronic kidney disease
Early menopause
Rheumatoid arthritis
Height loss that is indicative of compression fractures in the spinal column
Eating disorder leading to low body weight.
How it is done?
It is also known as dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry DXA. The test is non-invasive, painless, and quick. All it needs the aspirant to do is lie stably on the bench while an X-ray machine scans the hip, spine, and other bones of a person’s torso.
What does Bone Mineral Density test measure?
The test measures the density of the bones and their chemical composition. The high concentration of calcium and minerals in X-rays indicate strong and dense bones that are less likely to break. Lower mineral content warns weakening of bones and increases the likelihood of bone breaking.
How to prepare for Bone Mineral Density Test?
Test preparation requires little at the side of the person. One should avoid wearing clothes with buttons, snaps, or zippers because metal can interfere with x-ray images.
What are the risks involved in Bone Mineral Density Test?
Risk involvement of Bone mineral density test restricts to radiation exposure for few seconds that is far less dangerous than not detecting osteoporosis before it reaches peak.
Results
The results of the test are known as T-score. It has a range of values that evaluates health of bones.
Score of 0 is ideal
Normal is between 1 and -1
Low bone mass: -1 to -2.5
Osteoporosis: -2.5 or lower
Severe osteoporosis: -2.5 or lower with bone fractures.