All tests
Imaging
DEXA Bone Density Scan
A low-dose X-ray that measures bone density at the hip and spine.
Video lesson
Why it’s ordered
To diagnose osteoporosis and track treatment.
Understanding results
Results are given as T-scores: -1.0 or above is normal, -1.0 to -2.5 is low bone mass (osteopenia), and -2.5 or below is osteoporosis.
Good to know
Repeat scans are usually done every 1 to 2 years on the same machine.
At a glance
Type
Imaging
Reviewed by Farhan Tahir, MD, FACR
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