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Bone Mineral Density Scan
Overview
A bone mineral density (BMD) scan measures how dense your bones are. The scan is a nonsurgical way to assess the health of your bones. It’s used to:
- Screen for bone loss and osteoporosis.
- Predict your future risk of breaking a bone (fracture).
- Monitor how well fracture-prevention medications are working.
A BMD scan differs from other bone scans that detect damage, such as those used to diagnose infections or cancer-related problems.
Why It Is Done
A BMD scan is recommended for adults at higher risk for osteoporosis. Talk with your doctor about this scan if you:
- Are age 65 or older.
- Are taking certain medications, such as corticosteroids.
- Have certain medical conditions, such as hyperparathyroidism.
- Have had your ovaries or testicles removed and use gender-affirming hormones.
If you have osteoporosis, a bone scan can help evaluate how well your treatment is working.
How It Is Performed
A BMD scan is done with a special type of X-ray called a dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry scan (DEXA). The scan measures the density of your bones. It’s usually performed on the lower spine and hips and is painless.
The test will take 10 to 20 minutes. The scanner is an open machine, not a closed tube. During the scan, the technician will:
- Position you on the scanning table and ask you to remain still.
- Pass the overhead scanner over you and take images from different angles.
You can ask questions at any time, but you need to remain still during the scan. Your results will be sent to your doctor.
How You Prepare
You can prepare for your scan by:
- Wearing loose-fitting clothing.
- Removing any metal, such as jewelry and belts, around your waist or chest.
If you take calcium supplements, don’t take them the day of your exam. This ensures the accuracy of the scan.
Results
A BMD scan compares your current bone density to the average bone density of a younger adult of your sex. This allows your doctor to estimate how much bone mass you’ve lost.
The test result is given as a T-score. A negative number isn't always cause for concern.
- A normal T-score is any number at or above -1.
- A T-score lower than -1 but higher than -2.5 indicates osteopenia (thinning bones).
- A T-score -2.5 or lower indicates osteoporosis.
After Your Test
Depending on your T-score and risk factors, your doctor will talk with you about treatment and schedule repeat scanning if needed.
If you break a bone in the future, let your doctor know. This may affect your need for medication and another BMD test.
If your test results indicate osteopenia or osteoporosis, your doctor will talk with you about treatment options, such as:
- Calcium and vitamin D supplements
- Diet and lifestyle changes
- Exercise
- Fracture-prevention medication
Additional References
Disclaimer
If you have an emergency medical condition, call 911 or go to the nearest hospital. An emergency medical condition is any of the following: (1) a medical condition that manifests itself by acute symptoms of sufficient severity (including severe pain) such that you could reasonably expect the absence of immediate medical attention to result in serious jeopardy to your health or body functions or organs; (2) active labor when there isn't enough time for safe transfer to a Plan hospital (or designated hospital) before delivery, or if transfer poses a threat to your (or your unborn child's) health and safety, or (3) a mental disorder that manifests itself by acute symptoms of sufficient severity such that either you are an immediate danger to yourself or others, or you are not immediately able to provide for, or use, food, shelter, or clothing, due to the mental disorder.
This information is not intended to diagnose health problems or to take the place of specific medical advice or care you receive from your physician or other health care professional. If you have persistent health problems, or if you have additional questions, please consult with your doctor. If you have questions or need more information about your medication, please speak to your pharmacist. Kaiser Permanente does not endorse the medications or products mentioned. Any trade names listed are for easy identification only.