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A bone mass measurement test is the most reliable method for predicting bone fractures and diagnosing osteoporosis, according to the National Osteoporosis Foundation.
Significance
Bone mass tests can show a doctor if you're at risk for a future bone fracture. If you've already broken a bone, a density scan can confirm or rule out osteoporosis, a bone-thinning disease.
Testing
The most common bone mass calculation method is the Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry, or DEXA. The DEXA bone scan produces two types of results: T-scores and Z-scores.
Calculations
The T-score on a bone density test shows how your bone mass compares with that of a healthy young person of your same gender. The Z-score shows how your bones compare to those of a person your age.
T-Scores
If your T-score is above -1, your bone mass is considered normal, according to the Mayo Clinic. If it is between -1 and -2.5, you may have osteopenia, or below-normal bone density. If it is below -2.5, your bone density indicates osteoporosis.
Z-Scores
If your Z-score is less than -1.5, it may signal that factors other than aging or menopause are causing your bone loss.
Source:
University of Washington Department of Medicine: Bone Density
Mayo Clinic: Bone Density Test
National Osteoporosis Foundation: BMD Testing: What the Numbers Mean
More Information:
National Osteoporosis Foundation
National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases
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