How to Read Your DEXA Scan Results

A DEXA (Dual-energy X-ray Absorptiometry) scan is a painless test that measures bone mineral density (BMD). It’s often used to diagnose osteoporosis, a condition that weakens bones and increases the risk of fractures (this bone health quiz helps you find out your risk). While the scan itself is straightforward, you may need help to understand the results.

What is a DEXA Scan?

Before we delve into the results, let’s briefly understand what a DEXA scan does for your bones. DEXA or DXA uses low-dose X-rays to measure how porous or dense your bones are in your hip, spine, and sometimes other areas. The results are compared to the bone density of a healthy young adult.

What sets DEXA scans apart from other bone density screening methods is their unmatched accuracy and the comprehensive details they provide about your bone mineral density. If you have a DEXA scan appointment coming up, even though the technician will guide you through each piece of your DEXA scan, it’s beneficial to know how to interpret your results to gain a better understanding of your bone health.

What Do The Results Mean?

Bone densitometry scan results are given as either a “T” score or a “Z” score. T-scores compare your bone condition to that of a healthy young adult, while Z-scores compare it to someone of your age. Of the two, the T-score is generally more significant. T-scores are typically negative, and the lower the T-score, the higher the risk of fractures.

Understanding T-Score

For postmenopausal women and men age 50 years and older, the T-score is the number that is used for diagnostic classification, as follows:

Normal bone density

Individuals with a T-score between +1 and -1 are considered to have normal bone density. While treatment is generally not necessary for those within this range, it is beneficial to take preventive measures against bone loss. This includes ensuring sufficient intake of calcium and vitamin D, as well as engaging in weight-bearing exercises.

Low bone mass (osteopenia)

Healthcare providers use the term osteopenia to describe bone density that is below normal but not yet low enough to be classified as osteoporosis.

Individuals with osteopenia are at risk of developing osteoporosis. Osteopenia is characterized by a T-score between -1.1 and -2.4.

If you have additional risk factors for fractures and a T-score in the osteopenic range, you may be at a higher risk for fractures. People with low bone mass are generally advised to take preventive measures against osteoporosis, which may sometimes include medication.

Osteoporosis

Individuals with osteoporosis have a T-score of -2.5 or lower. Larger negative numbers (e.g., -3.0) indicate even lower bone density.

The lower the bone density, the higher the risk of fractures. If you are diagnosed with osteoporosis, there are several steps you can take to reduce the risk of fractures. These include taking osteoporosis medications, supplementing with calcium and vitamin D, and following an exercise program. Additionally, if you have previously experienced a low trauma bone fracture, you are classified as having osteoporosis and should take osteoporosis medications, regardless of your bone density T-score.

Z-Score Meanings and Average Range

The Z-score on your bone density test compares your bone density to the average bone density of people your age and sex, using the same units of measurement (SD) as the T-score. For instance, a Z-score of -1 or -2 SD indicates that your bones are less dense than the average for your age and sex.

Z-scores are specifically used to assess the bone density of children, young adults, pre-menopausal women, and men under 50 years old. Along with lifestyle factor analysis, Z-scores can also help identify secondary osteoporosis, which is caused by certain illnesses, medications, or lifestyle factors.

Preventive DEXA Scan From Dexacan

Fully understanding your DEXA bone density scan results is important as you continue on your journey towards better overall health. The Bone Density Scan from Dexacan includes a radiologist report and a consultation with our doctor to review the results. The physician can then provide recommendations or referrals based on the findings.

If you still have questions or would like to schedule a DEXA scan appointment, contact us today.