Identification of early-onset low bone mineral density may be achieved via which test?

Identification of early-onset low bone mineral density may be achieved via which test?

• A. MRI
• B. DEXA
• C. Ultrasound
• D. CT scan

Answer: (B)

To identify early reductions in bone mineral density, you need a test that directly quantifies mineral content in bone. Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry, or DEXA, is designed for this purpose. It uses two low-dose X-ray beams to differentiate bone from soft tissue and calculates bone mineral density at key sites such as the spine and hip. The results provide T-scores and Z-scores, helping classify density relative to young healthy adults and to age-matched peers, and guide decisions about osteopenia or osteoporosis. DEXA is fast, has minimal radiation, is widely available, and offers the most precise measurement of BMD, which is why it’s the standard tool for detecting low bone density early. MRI doesn’t measure bone mineral density directly; it’s used for soft tissue and marrow imaging. Ultrasound can estimate bone density at peripheral sites but isn’t the standard diagnostic method for BMD. CT can quantify density as well but involves more radiation and is not routine for screening.

To identify early reductions in bone mineral density, you need a test that directly quantifies mineral content in bone. Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry, or DEXA, is designed for this purpose. It uses two low-dose X-ray beams to differentiate bone from soft tissue and calculates bone mineral density at key sites such as the spine and hip. The results provide T-scores and Z-scores, helping classify density relative to young healthy adults and to age-matched peers, and guide decisions about osteopenia or osteoporosis. DEXA is fast, has minimal radiation, is widely available, and offers the most precise measurement of BMD, which is why it’s the standard tool for detecting low bone density early.

MRI doesn’t measure bone mineral density directly; it’s used for soft tissue and marrow imaging. Ultrasound can estimate bone density at peripheral sites but isn’t the standard diagnostic method for BMD. CT can quantify density as well but involves more radiation and is not routine for screening.