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Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry

(Bone Mineral Density Testing; DEXA; DXA; Central DXA; Peripheral DXA)

by Editorial Staff and Contributors

Definition

Dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) is a test that measures the density (or thickness) of your bones.

The DEXA scan is an x-ray scan that uses a small amount of radiation to take pictures of different bones. These pictures are used to measure the density of the bones at the spine, hip, forearm. It can also take pictures of other bones such as a finger or the heel bone. Measurements of the spine and hip are called central DXA. Those done on the arms or legs are called peripheral DXA. In some cases, your doctor may order a whole body scan.

Reasons for Test

This test will help your doctor assess the density of your bones. It will help determine if you have osteoporosis, a bone-thinning disease. This information may be used to predict your risk of bone fractures.

Osteoporosis

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Possible Complications    TOP

An x-ray uses radiation to make images. The low levels of radiation from a single x-ray will not effect most people. If you are pregnant or think you may be pregnant talk to your doctor before the x-ray. Radiation may be harmful to developing babies.

What to Expect    TOP

Prior to Test

  • Eat normally on the day of the test.
  • Wait up to two weeks before having a DEXA scan if you have had a barium study or if you have been injected with contrast dye for a CT scan or MRI.
  • Wear loose, comfortable clothing. Do not wear clothing with metal zippers, belts, or buttons.
  • If there is any possibility that you are pregnant, let the staff know.

Description of Test

Central DXA

Central DXA measures bone density in the hip and spine. You will be asked to lie on a table. Your position will depend on the area being examined. You will be asked to hold still and may be asked to hold your breath while the X-ray is taken. The X-ray will be taken and sent to a computer monitor.

Peripheral DXA

Peripheral DXA measures bone density in the finger, hand, forearm, or foot. The area being examined will be placed in a small device. The device will provide a bone density reading in a few minutes.

After Test

You will be able to leave after the test is done.

How Long Will It Take?

About 10 minutes

Will It Hurt?

No

Results

The test results are usually available within a few days. Your test results will show two types of scores:

  • T score—This number shows the amount of bone you have in comparison to a young adult of the same gender with peak bone mass. A score above -1 is considered normal. A score between -1 and -2.5 may mean you have osteopenia, the first stage of bone loss. A score below -2.5 means you may have osteoporosis.
  • Z score—This number shows the amount of bone you have in comparison to other people of your age group, gender, and race.

These test results will help your doctor determine your risk for bone fractures.

Call Your Doctor    TOP

Call your doctor if you have any questions about your condition, the test, or your test results.

RESOURCES:

The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons
http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/
National Osteoporosis Foundation
http://www.nof.org/

CANADIAN RESOURCES:

Health Canada
http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca
Osteoporosis Canada
http://www.osteoporosis.ca

References:

Bone density scan. RadiologyInfo.org website. Available at: http://www.radiologyinfo.org/en/info.cfm?pg=dexa&bhcp=1 . Updated April 12, 2012. Accessed December 3, 2012.
National Osteoporosis Foundation. Clinician's Guide to Prevention and Treatment of Osteoporosis. Washington, DC: National Osteoporosis Foundation, 2010. Available at: http://www.nof.org... . Accessed December 3, 2012.
Osteoporosis. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: http://www.ebscohost.com/dynamed . Updated November 5, 2012. Accessed December 3, 2012.
Osteoporosis: bone density tests. Am Acad Orthop Surg Bull . 1999;47(3).
Sartoris D, Dalinka MK, Alazraki N. Osteoporosis and bone mass measurement. Radiology . 2000;215(suppl):397-414.
Last reviewed November 2012 by Brian Randall, MD
Last Updated: 11/26/2012