Bone Density Measurement (BMD) is a quick non-invasive test to measure bone density. For measuring bone density, the most useful and reliable technology is DEXA's Dual Energy X-ray absorptiometry.
DEXA's technology is quite safe and radiation exposure is extremely low. The person receives less than 10% of the radiation that is typical received in a chest X-ray.
The measurement is done primarily in the neck of the femur and also in the spine because these are the areas most likely to be fractured in case of osteoporosis/osteopenia.
This test can be done on anyone who has an indication or suspicion that they may have a bone disease.
Bone Density Measurement
- Postmenopausal women younger than 65 years of age
- All women over 65 years of age regardless of risk factors
- People who have a history of osteopenia/osteoporosis
- People who are taking or plan to take cortisone for a long time
- Men over 70 years old
- Women and men being treated for osteoporosis in order to reassess the treatment