Densitometry

Densitometry is a radiological examination that assesses the mineral content in bones. Based on that assessment, mineral density is calculated to estimate bone strength. It is used in the diagnosis of conditions with reduced bone density (e.g. osteoporosis).

Densitometry uses a small dose of ionizing radiation to create an image of the bone. The procedure is fast (15-20 minutes), simple and non-invasive, and is the most accurate method of determining bone density.

There are several types of densitometric methods, such as DXA, SXA, SPA, DPA. DXA (Dul x-ray absorptiometry) method is most commonly used.

Indications for densitometry:

• Estrogen-deficient women, e.g. menopausal women who are not taking hormone replacement therapy

• Osteoporosis (read more about osteoporosis and risk factors in the blog)

• Type 1 diabetes

• Some liver and kidney disease

• Patients with genetic heredity associated with bone damage

• Previous hip fracture

• Patients with clinical conditions associated with bone damage (e.g. rheumatoid arthritis, chronic liver or kidney disease)

• Use of some medicines (such as corticosteroids, certain antiepileptics, barbiturates and others)

• Hyperthyroidism

• Hyperparathyroidism

• Radiological assessment indicating signs of reduced bone mineralization

• Smoking

• Decreased physical activity (eg insufficient movement)

If you have any of these indications, come for an examination and consult with our experts.