Analysis of Bone Density: Why Explore Certain Areas?
Why explore certain areas?
Some areas of exploration are more appropriate in certain patients. For example, examination of the hips is the best predictor of these fractures, but some patients can not take the position needed to do it.
The exploration of the wrist is quick and accurate, but can not be applied to patients who have previously suffered fractures of both wrists, or are suffering from certain types of arthritis. The exploration of the spine provides unreliable results in people over 60 years, and in those abnormally thick or thin.How often these examinations should be performed?
A single scan is enough, in most cases to predict the overall risk of fractures in the future. If necessary make a new decision regarding the treatment can be performed another scan in two to three years. Patients on long-term steroid (reduced bone mass), they must repeat the examination every two or three years.
Do you have osteoporosis in all cases of low bone density?
No. There are other causes of low bone density that also pose a risk of fractures.Some of these include: osteomalacia (vitamin D), hyperactivity of some glands, certain bowel disorders, and osteogenesis imperfecta, a hereditary disease characterized by the appearance of fractures in childhood. It is important to rule out these causes, since each has its specific treatment, other than osteoporosis.
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