Bone-density
tests may be recommended for some women after they have experienced menopause.
The tests are also used to monitor osteoporosis prevention and treatment. Bone
measurement is a quick, painless and inexpensive test. The most accurate of these
tests is done with a bone densitometer using dual energy X-ray absorptiometry
(iDEXA). The iDEXA scan is very accurate and can measure as little as 1 percent
to 2 percent loss of bone. The iDEXA scan is used not only to diagnose bone loss,
but also t documents the bone density over time and with treatment.
Special
CT scans also can measure bone density, and ultrasound machines may be helpful
in the near future. Routine X-rays of the bones help identify fractures. However,
x-rays are not accurate in determining bone density because 30 percent or more
of the bone must be lost before the x-ray shows it clearly. Other densityometry
methods are useful, but less accurate.
