Years ago, osteoporosis could only be detected after the bones were broken. Today, bone density tests called “Densitometry” can be used to determine whether osteoporosis is present or how much the risk of osteoporosis is.
What is a Bone Density Test?
A special X-ray is used to measure the amount of calcium and other minerals in the bone. The higher the mineral content, the higher the bone density. Higher bone density means they are stronger and more resistant to fracture.
Who should it be done to?
– Women older than 65 years
-Women aged 60 years and at risk of osteoporosis
What are the Risk Factors?
– As bones weaken with age, the risk of osteoporosis increases.
– Race is also a factor. Whites are at higher risk than blacks and people of African descent.
– Being underweight increases the risk.
– History of bone fracture in the past
– Having someone with osteoporosis in the family
– The use of medications that increase bone loss are also factors that increase the risk.
How to prepare for a bone density test?
The test is very easy, quick and painless. It requires no preparation. Some can even be done in the clinic.
How is it done?
It is applied to bones that are more likely to break due to osteoporosis. These are the lumbar vertebrae, the part where the femur connects to the hip, the wrist and arm bones. The measuring machines can be large enough for a person to enter, or small enough to accommodate only a finger, wrist or heel. The procedure usually takes 5-10 minutes.
The results of small-sized machines also give the risk of fracture. However, the results of a heel test may not be as accurate as a vertebral or hip test. This is because the bone density of each region is different. Bone densities measured from the toe or heel are performed as a screening test and if the result is positive, vertebral and hip bone densities are also ordered.
How are the results of the test evaluated?
There are two ways to give a result: a T score and a Z score:
The T score compares your bone density with normal, healthy, young people of the same sex. It is said to be above or below using certain standard numbers. If the T score is above -1, your bone density is normal. Between -1 and -2.5 means osteopenia, a condition between normal and osteoporosis. Below -2.5 means osteoporosis.
The Z score is a comparison with normal people of the same age, gender, weight and race as you. This is a more accurate comparison. This is because age-related bone loss is already expected and if there is another cause, it should be investigated. If the Z score is below -1.5, it means that there are causes other than old age, and if the cause can be found, treatment will be given accordingly. This will reduce or even stop bone loss.
When should it be done?
– After menopause and at risk of osteoporosis
– If you have hyperparathyroidism
– If there is a spinal abnormality that raises suspicion of a fracture
– If long-term cortisone treatment has been taken
– A bone density test is performed to evaluate the results of osteoporosis treatment.
A bone density test is an important tool for detecting osteoporosis and understanding your risk of fracture. The results obtained with different methods are also different. Large machines are more accurate, but small machines are also suitable for screening large populations. A bone density test tells you how dense or less dense your bones are, but it cannot explain why. Therefore, if osteoporosis is detected, further investigations are needed.