What is a bone density test?

A bone density test is used to measure bone mineral content and density. It may be done using X-rays, or dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA or DXA). Or a special CT scan that uses computer software to determine bone density of the hip or spine. For various reasons, the DEXA scan is considered the "gold standard" or most accurate test.

This measurement tells the healthcare provider whether there is decreased bone mass. This is a condition in which bones are more brittle. They are prone to break or fracture easily.

A bone density test is used mainly to diagnose osteopenia and osteoporosis. It's also used to determine your future fracture risk. The test typically measures the bone density of the bones of the spine, lower arm, and hip. Portable testing may use the radius (one of the two bones of the lower arm), wrist, fingers, or heel for testing. But it is not as precise as the nonportable methods. Only one bone site is tested in portable testing.

Standard X-rays may show weakened bones. But at the point when bone weakness can be seen on standard X-rays, it may be too far advanced to treat. Bone densitometry testing can find decreasing bone density and strength at a much earlier stage when treatment can help.

Why might I need a bone density test?

A bone density test is mainly done to look for osteoporosis (thin, weak bones) and osteopenia (decreased bone mass). These problems should be treated as soon as possible. Early treatment helps prevent bone fractures. The complications of broken bones due to osteoporosis are often bad, particularly in older adults. The earlier osteoporosis can be diagnosed, the sooner treatment can be started. Doing so can improve the condition or keep it from getting worse.

A bone density testing may be used to:

• Confirm a diagnosis of osteoporosis if you have already had a bone fracture

• Predict your chances of fracturing a bone in the future

• Determine your rate of bone loss

• See if treatment is working

There are many risk factors for osteoporosis. Some common risk factors are:

• Postmenopausal women not taking estrogen

• Advancing age, women older than age 65 and men older than age 70

• Smoking

• Drinking too much alcohol

• Ethnic background

• Family history of hip fracture or osteoporosis

• Using steroids long-term or certain other medicines

• Certain diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis, type 1 diabetes mellitus, liver disease, kidney disease, hyperthyroidism, inflammatory bowel disorders, or hyperparathyroidism

• Low BMI (body mass index)

What are the risks of a bone density test?

Bone densitometry testing uses a low dose of radiation. You may want to ask your healthcare provider about the amount of radiation used during the procedure and the risks related to your situation. It's a good idea to keep a record of your radiation exposure. This includes previous CT scans and other types of X-rays. This way you can tell your healthcare provider. Risks from radiation exposure may be related to the cumulative number of X-ray exams or treatments over a long period.

Tell your healthcare provider if you are pregnant or think that you may be. Radiation exposure during pregnancy can lead to birth defects.

There may be other risks depending on your specific health problem. Talk about any concerns with your healthcare provider before the procedure.

Certain factors or conditions may interfere with a bone density test. These include:

• Metal jewelry or other metal objects from a past surgery, such as hip replacements or spine surgery

• Body piercing

• A barium X-ray within 10 to 14 days of testing

• Calcified arthritic sclerosis of the posterior vertebrae

• Calcified abdominal aortic aneurysm

• Healed bone fractures

• Metallic clips from previous stomach surgery

How do I get ready for a bone density test?

• Your healthcare provider will explain the procedure to you and ask if you have any questions.

• You will be asked to sign a consent form that gives your permission to do the test. Read the form carefully and ask questions if anything is not clear.

• Generally, no preparation is needed, such as not eating or not taking medicine. You may be told to stop taking calcium supplements 24 to 48 hours before your bone density test.

• Tell the technologist if you are pregnant or think you may be.

• Your healthcare provider may give you other instructions on what to do before bone density testing based on your medical condition.

What happens during a bone density test?

This test may be done on an outpatient basis. Or as part of your stay in a hospital. Procedures may vary depending on your condition and your healthcare provider's practices.

Generally, it follows this process:

1. In some cases, you may stay dressed but will be asked to remove all metallic objects. These include belt buckles, zippers, coins, keys, jewelry, dental appliances, and eyeglasses. In other cases, you will be given a gown to wear so that no buttons, zippers, or hooks will interfere with the imaging process.

2. You will be positioned on an X-ray table, lying flat on your back. Your legs will be supported on a padded box. This helps to flatten the pelvis and lumbar spine.

3. Under the table, a photon generator will pass slowly beneath you. At the same time, an X-ray detecting camera passes above the table parallel to the photon generator beneath. Together, they project pictures of the lumbar spine (lower back) and hipbones onto a computer screen. You will be asked to stay very still. You may also be asked to hold your breath for a short time to get a very clear picture.

4. The radius, a bone in your forearm, or your heel may be scanned depending on your healthcare provider's request. The computer will calculate the amount of photons that are not absorbed by the bones. This is done to determine the bone mineral content. The bone mineral density will then be calculated by the healthcare provider.

The entire scan takes about 30 minutes. A portable scan that checks only your forearm, finger, hand, or foot, takes a bone density reading in a few minutes.

While the bone densitometry procedure itself causes no pain, the movements of the body parts being examined may cause some discomfort or pain. This is particularly true if you have recently had surgery or an injury. The technologist will use all possible comfort measures and complete the procedure as quickly as possible to reduce any discomfort or pain.

What happens after a bone density test?

There is no special type of care needed after a bone density test. You may go back to your usual diet and activities, unless your healthcare provider advises otherwise.

Next steps

Before you agree to the test or procedure, make sure you know:

• The name of the test or procedure

• The reason you are having the test or procedure

• What results to expect and what they mean

• The risks and benefits of the test or procedure

• What the possible side effects or complications are

• When and where you are to have the test or procedure

• Who will do the test or procedure and what that person’s qualifications are

• What would happen if you did not have the test or procedure

• Any alternative tests or procedures to think about

• When and how you will get the results

• Who to call after the test or procedure if you have questions or problems

• How much you will have to pay for the test or procedure