WHY BMD TEST IS DONE

What is a BMD Test?

A bone mineral density (BMD) test is a procedure that measures the amount of minerals, such as calcium and phosphorus, in your bones. It is used to diagnose and monitor conditions that affect bone strength, such as osteoporosis and osteopenia. The test can also be used to assess your risk of developing fractures.

Why is a BMD Test Done?

Your doctor may recommend a BMD test if you have any of the following:

• Osteoporosis or osteopenia
• A family history of osteoporosis
• Certain medical conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis or diabetes
• Certain medications, such as steroids or thyroid hormone
• A history of fractures
• A low body weight
• Being over the age of 65

How is a BMD Test Done?

A BMD test is usually done using a device called a dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) scanner. The DXA scanner uses two X-ray beams to measure the density of your bones. The test is painless and takes about 10 to 15 minutes.

During the test, you will lie on a table while the DXA scanner moves over your body. The scanner will emit X-rays that will pass through your bones. The amount of X-rays that are absorbed by your bones will be measured and used to calculate your BMD.

What Do the Results of a BMD Test Mean?

The results of a BMD test are reported in T-scores and Z-scores.

• T-scores compare your BMD to the BMD of a healthy young adult of the same sex and race.
• Z-scores compare your BMD to the BMD of people of the same age, sex, and race.

A T-score of -1 or lower indicates that you have osteoporosis. A T-score between -1 and -2.5 indicates that you have osteopenia. A T-score of -2.5 or lower indicates that you have severe osteoporosis.

A Z-score of -2 or lower indicates that you have low BMD for your age, sex, and race. This may be a sign that you are at increased risk for developing osteoporosis.

What Happens After a BMD Test?

If your BMD test results show that you have osteoporosis or osteopenia, your doctor will work with you to develop a treatment plan. The goal of treatment is to slow or stop bone loss and reduce your risk of fractures.

Treatment for osteoporosis and osteopenia may include:

• Medication to slow or stop bone loss
• Calcium and vitamin D supplements
• Weight-bearing exercise
• Lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking and reducing alcohol intake

Conclusion

A BMD test is a safe and painless procedure that can help your doctor diagnose and monitor osteoporosis and osteopenia. If you are at risk for these conditions, talk to your doctor about getting a BMD test.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the difference between osteoporosis and osteopenia?

Osteoporosis is a condition in which the bones become weak and brittle. Osteopenia is a less severe condition in which the bones are weaker than normal but not yet brittle.

2. What are the risk factors for osteoporosis and osteopenia?

The risk factors for osteoporosis and osteopenia include:

• Being a woman
• Being over the age of 65
• Having a family history of osteoporosis
• Certain medical conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis or diabetes
• Certain medications, such as steroids or thyroid hormone
• A history of fractures
• A low body weight
3. How can I prevent osteoporosis and osteopenia?

You can help prevent osteoporosis and osteopenia by:

• Getting regular weight-bearing exercise
• Eating a healthy diet that includes plenty of calcium and vitamin D
• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Avoiding smoking
• Limiting alcohol intake
4. What is the treatment for osteoporosis and osteopenia?

The treatment for osteoporosis and osteopenia may include:

• Medication to slow or stop bone loss
• Calcium and vitamin D supplements
• Weight-bearing exercise
• Lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking and reducing alcohol intake
5. What is the prognosis for osteoporosis and osteopenia?

The prognosis for osteoporosis and osteopenia is generally good. With proper treatment, you can slow or stop bone loss and reduce your risk of fractures.