Osteoperosis Screening with Bone Density Exam/DEXA Scan

Bone Densitometry, or DEXA (Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry), has become an important diagnostic technique for Osteoporosis Screening, now that effective medical therapy is available for this common and often disabling condition.  Scanning is performed of the lumbar spine and of one hip. The bone densities are calculated and graphed relative to normal controls.  Density readings more than 2.5 standard deviations below normal young controls are categorized as Osteoporosis.  Those between one and 2.5 standard deviations below normal controls are categorized as Osteopenia.  Occasionally degenerative changes can artifactually increase the calculated bone density, so the interpreting radiologist will compare readings at different levels in the lumbar spine as well as compare with the associated image to avoid this potential limitation.

Bone Densitometry / DEXA Scan is available at SDI Diagnostic Imaging in Oldsmar as well as at St. Joseph's Women's Hospital and St. Joseph's Diagnostic Centers.