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home:tests:dexa [01.03.2019] – [Notes and comments] sallieqhome:tests:dexa [01.03.2019] – [Notes and comments] sallieq
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-DEXA: Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry +--- //Sallie Q 01.03.2019// //CAN NOT FIND THE FOLLOWING NIH info//  
-The most widely test used to screen for osteoporosis is a bone density test (densitometry) that uses an enhanced X-ray technology called dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA or DEXA). This is NOT the same as a bone scan, which relies on a radioactive injection to help detect areas of increased bone metabolism due to fracture, infection or tumors.  +                      . You can read about calculating and interpreting both scores here.
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-During a bone density test, a low energy source is passed over the body. Information evaluated by a computer allows an estimate of bone mass. This helps the doctor get an idea of bone strength, osteoporosis and risk of fracture. +
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-The results of a DEXA bone density test are interpreted by a radiologist and and report is sent to the doctor who ordered the test. The results will have two scores or numbers. +
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-Understanding the Scores (<--click here) +
-Your T-score compares you to a young adult of your gender with peak bone mass. Any T-score larger than -1 is considered normal.  +
-The Z-score reflects the amount of bone you have compared to other people your same size, age and gender. This number is related to percentiles. Originally, only Z-scores were calculated, but when bone density machines became commercially available beginning in the 80's, T-scores were devised because different manufacturers could not agree on a standard measurement. You can read about calculating and interpreting both scores here.+
  
 Still confused about what DEXA scores mean - in simple terms? Read this from the NIH. Still confused about what DEXA scores mean - in simple terms? Read this from the NIH.
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 A few more issues related to DEXA scores are covered in this Wikipedia article which says, inter alia, "It is important for patients to get repeat BMD measurements done on the same machine each time, or at least a machine from the same manufacturer. Error between machines, or trying to convert measurments from one manufacturer's standard to another can introduce errors large enough to wipe out the sensitivity of the measurments." A few more issues related to DEXA scores are covered in this Wikipedia article which says, inter alia, "It is important for patients to get repeat BMD measurements done on the same machine each time, or at least a machine from the same manufacturer. Error between machines, or trying to convert measurments from one manufacturer's standard to another can introduce errors large enough to wipe out the sensitivity of the measurments."
  
-This Medscape article (registration required, but it is free) reviews the uses and limitations of BMD measurements and the relationship between BMD and bone strength.+--- //Sallie Q 01.03.2019// //CAN NOT FIND THE FOLLOWING NIH info//  This Medscape article (registration required, but it is free) reviews the uses and limitations of BMD measurements and the relationship between BMD and bone strength.
  
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home/tests/dexa.txt · Last modified: 09.14.2022 by 127.0.0.1
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