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Bone mineral density test - Results

Alternative Names

BMD test; Bone density test; Bone densitometry

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

Your doctor will help you understand the results.

What abnormal results mean:

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

Bone density scan

Osteoporosis

Reviewed last on: 4/24/2008
Peter Chen, MD, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

References

Gass M, Dawson-Hughes B. Preventing osteoporosis-related fractures: an overview. Am J Med. 2006;119:S3-S11.

National Osteoporosis Foundation. Clinician's Guide to Prevention and Treatment of Osteoporosis. 2008.

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