A Dual-Energy X-Ray Absorptiometry (DXA) test is a bone density study used to determine whether you have osteoporosis or low bone mass, conditions that commonly affect women after menopause and, in some cases, men. It is a fast, safe and painless test that measures bone strength and can predict your risk for bone fracture. DXA may also be used as a follow-up procedure to monitor response to specific medications.
DEXA bone densitometry is used most often to diagnose osteoporosis, a condition that often affects women after menopause, but may also be found in men. Osteoporosis involves a gradual loss of calcium, causing the bones to become thinner, more fragile, and more likely to break. The DEXA test can also assess your risk for developing fractures. If your bone density is found to be low, you and your physician can work together on a treatment plan to help prevent fractures before they occur. DEXA is also effective in tracking the effects of treatment for osteoporosis or for other conditions that cause bone loss.
Bone densitometry is a non-invasive, accurate, inexpensive way of detecting osteoporosis. The procedure takes 15 – 30 minutes and does not require undressing. A bone densitometry scan: