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Health Screening/Diagnostic Services > Bone Mineral Density Tests
Bone Mineral Density Tests
Programs that offer any of a variety of tests that are used to measure an individual's bone mass, bone density and/or how tightly the bone matter is packed. The most common procedure (the DEXA scan) uses a double beam x-ray; can be conducted at a variety of sites including the spine, hip or total body; and is recommended for people who have suffered a recent fracture in which osteoporosis is suspected or who are at risk for osteoporosis. Others include an ultrasound test which measures bone density in the heel, wrist or forearm; the SXA scan (single energy x-ray absorptiometry) which measures the wrist or heel; the PDXA scan (peripheral dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry) which measures the wrist, heel or finger; RA (radiographic x-ray absorptiometry) which measures the hand; DPA (dual photon x-ray absorptiometry) which measures the spine, hip or total body; SPA (single photon x-ray absorptiometry) which measures the wrist; and QCT (quantitative computed tomography) which measures the spine or hip. Although all bones of the skeleton will reflect osteoporosis to some extent, bone density studies of the spine and hip may detect bone loss earlier. Peripheral bone measurements are accurate enough to be used as screening tools but not as precise as the DEXA test which is often recommended if the results of screening procedures indicate that further testing is warranted. The test can be repeated to evaluate the results of medication, estrogen-replacement therapy or other forms of treatment.