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Bone mineral density test - Results

Alternative Names

BMD test; Bone density test; Bone densitometry; DEXA scan; DXA; Dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry; p-DEXA

Normal Values:

The results of your test are usually reported as a "T score" and "Z score."

The T score compares your bone density with that of healthy young women.
The Z score compares your bone density with that of other people of your age, gender, and race.

In either score, a negative number means you have thinner bones than the standard. The more negative the number, the higher your risk of a bone fracture.

A T score is within the normal range if it is -1.0 or above.

What abnormal results mean:

Bone mineral density testing does not diagnose fractures. However, along with other risk factors you may have, it helps predict your risk of having a bone fracture in the future. Your doctor will help you understand the results.

A T score between -1 and -2.5 indicates the beginning of bone loss (osteopenia).
A T score below -2.5 indicates osteoporosis.

Treatment recommendations depend on your total fracture risk.

Bone density scan

Osteoporosis

Reviewed last on: 12/22/2010
Susan Storck, MD, FACOG, Chief, Eastside Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Group Health Cooperative of Puget Sound, Bellevue, Washington; Clinical Teaching Faculty, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

References

Lim LS, Hoeksema LJ, Sherin K; ACPM Prevention Practice Committee. Screening for osteoporosis in the adult U.S. population: ACPM position statement on preventive practice. Am J Prev Med. 2009;36:366-375.

National Osteoporosis Foundation. Clinician's Guide to Prevention and Treatment of Osteoporosis. Washington, D.C.: National Osteoporosis Foundation; 2008.

Nelson HD, Haney EM, Dana T, Bougatsos C, Chou R. Screening for osteoporosis: an update for the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force. Ann Intern Med. 2010;153:99-111.

Osteoporosis

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