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Bone density
Bone density, or bone mineral density (BMD), is the amount of bone mineral in bone tissue, mass of mineral per volume of bone (relating to density). Clinically it is measured by proxy according to optical density per square centimetre of bone surface upon imaging. Bone density measurement is used in clinical medicine as an indirect indicator of osteoporosis and fracture risk. It is measured by a procedure called densitometry, often performed in the radiology or nuclear medicine departments of hospitals or clinics. The measurement is painless and non-invasive and involves low radiation exposure. Measurements are most commonly made over the lumbar spine and over the upper part of the hip. The forearm may be scanned if the hip and lumbar spine are not accessible.
There is a statistical association between poor bone density and a higher probability of fracture. Fractures of the legs and pelvis due to falls are a significant public health problem, especially in elderly women, leading to substantial medical costs, inability to live independently and even risk of death. Bone density measurements are used to screen people for osteoporosis risk and to identify those who might benefit from measures to improve bone strength.
In humans, bone density is generally higher in men, when taken at face value. However, because men often have longer bones than women, it is necessary to take into account total bone size and volume. Volumetrically, women have greater bone density than men, as their bones are often not as long as men's bones.
A bone density test may detect osteoporosis or osteopenia. The usual response to either of these indications is consultation with a physician. Bone density tests are not recommended for people without risk factors for weak bones, which is more likely to result in unnecessary treatment rather than discovery of a weakness.
The risk factors for low bone density and primary considerations for a bone density test include:
Other considerations that are related to the risk of low bone density and the need for a test include smoking habits, drinking habits, the long-term use of corticosteroid drugs, and a vitamin D deficiency.
Results of the test are reported in three forms:
While there are many types of bone mineral density tests, all are non-invasive. The tests differ according to which bones are measured to determine the test result.
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Bone density AI simulator
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Bone density
Bone density, or bone mineral density (BMD), is the amount of bone mineral in bone tissue, mass of mineral per volume of bone (relating to density). Clinically it is measured by proxy according to optical density per square centimetre of bone surface upon imaging. Bone density measurement is used in clinical medicine as an indirect indicator of osteoporosis and fracture risk. It is measured by a procedure called densitometry, often performed in the radiology or nuclear medicine departments of hospitals or clinics. The measurement is painless and non-invasive and involves low radiation exposure. Measurements are most commonly made over the lumbar spine and over the upper part of the hip. The forearm may be scanned if the hip and lumbar spine are not accessible.
There is a statistical association between poor bone density and a higher probability of fracture. Fractures of the legs and pelvis due to falls are a significant public health problem, especially in elderly women, leading to substantial medical costs, inability to live independently and even risk of death. Bone density measurements are used to screen people for osteoporosis risk and to identify those who might benefit from measures to improve bone strength.
In humans, bone density is generally higher in men, when taken at face value. However, because men often have longer bones than women, it is necessary to take into account total bone size and volume. Volumetrically, women have greater bone density than men, as their bones are often not as long as men's bones.
A bone density test may detect osteoporosis or osteopenia. The usual response to either of these indications is consultation with a physician. Bone density tests are not recommended for people without risk factors for weak bones, which is more likely to result in unnecessary treatment rather than discovery of a weakness.
The risk factors for low bone density and primary considerations for a bone density test include:
Other considerations that are related to the risk of low bone density and the need for a test include smoking habits, drinking habits, the long-term use of corticosteroid drugs, and a vitamin D deficiency.
Results of the test are reported in three forms:
While there are many types of bone mineral density tests, all are non-invasive. The tests differ according to which bones are measured to determine the test result.