What Is the Scoring Range for Osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis is a disorder characterized by deterioration of bone structure and low bone mass. It is typically diagnosed through a bone mineral density (BMD) test. Scores on a BMD test determine the severity of osteoporosis in a given individual.

Significance

• Poor scores on a BMD test indicate an increased risk for bone fracture. Potential complications of osteoporosis-related bone fracture include severe pain, spinal deformity and height loss.

T-Scores

• T-scores measure an individual's bone density relative to that of a hypothetical healthy young adult. They are typically used for postmenopausal women and men aged 50 or older.

Z-Scores

• Z-scores measure an individual's bone density relative to others of the same age, gender, weight and ethnicity. They are typically used for younger men, children and premenopausal women.

Scoring Results

• Bone density is measured in standard deviations (SDs) from an average result. If an individual's T-score or Z-score is less than -1 SD from average, it is considered normal. Results between -1 SD and -2.5 SD indicate bone density loss that may lead to osteoporosis. Results of less than -2.5 SD indicate the presence of osteoporosis.

Considerations

• T-scores are most accurate for postmenopausal white women. Results for men and women of color must be adjusted.