How to Interpret Dexa Results

DEXA or Dual Energy Xray Absorptionmetry, is a test that shows a patient's bone mineral density. This test commonly is used to evaluate a patient's bone loss and to diagnose osteopenia or osteoporosis. Since osteoporosis is responsible for 1.5 million fractures in the United States each year, this test is fairly common and has been shown to be a good predictor of bone loss. Below are the steps to take to interpret your DEXA results.

Things You'll Need

• DEXA report

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Instructions

• 1

  Your test results will have images of the scans taken and tables with numbers in them. Look below the images of the scans; that is where you will find the columns with your results.

• 2

  Notice the first column has a heading of Region. This column tells you what part of the body was scanned.

• 3

  The next column should have a heading of "BMD." That stands for bone mineral density. A score of +1.0 is good. A score of +1 to -1 shows normal bone mineral density. Any number below -1 to -2.5 shows osteopenia (low bone mass). A score of -2.5 or below shows osteoporosis.

• 4

  The next column over will have a heading of "T score" or just "T." This is a measurement of your bone mineral density compared to someone in her 30s. A score of +1.0 is good. A score of +1 to -1 shows normal bone mineral density. Any number from -1 to -2.5 shows osteopenia. A score of -2.5 and below shows osteoporosis.

• 5

  The column headed "Z score" or "Z" shows your bone mineral density compared to someone your own age. Again, a score of +1.0 is good. A score of +1 to -1 shows normal bone mineral density. Any number of -1 to -2.5 shows osteopenia. A score of -2.5 and below shows osteoporosis.

• 6

  Talk to your doctor about your results. Only your doctor can tell you what steps to take to keep your bones healthy.