Dual-Energy X-Ray Absorptiometry (DEXA) of Osteoporosis

DEXA of osteoporosis

Courtesy of Intermountain Medical Imaging, Boise, Idaho.

Figure 1 shows a bone mineral density (BMD) test of a healthy older woman. The X-ray shows normal hipbones. The graph shows the bone mineral density number in the green zone (normal). Figure 2 shows a BMD test of an older woman with osteoporosis. The X-ray shows weaker hipbones. The graph shows the bone mineral density number in the red zone (osteoporosis), placing her at much greater risk for broken bones (fractures).

Credits

ByHealthwise Staff
Primary Medical ReviewerAnne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine
Specialist Medical ReviewerCarla J. Herman, MD, MPH - Geriatric Medicine
Last RevisedAugust 30, 2012
By: Healthwise StaffLast Revised: August 30, 2012
Medical Review: Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine
Carla J. Herman, MD, MPH - Geriatric Medicine

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