Measurement of bone mineral density
Bone osteodensitometry is the most modern paraclinical method by which bone mineral density (calcium content) is measured, thereby establishing the diagnosis of osteoporosis, monitoring the evolution of the disease over time and the effectiveness of treatment.
Osteoporosis is characterized by a decrease in bone mineral density, with a consequent decrease in bone strength and an increase in the risk of fracture.
The early diagnosis of the condition by DEXA Osteodensitometry is very important because currently there are methods to stop the loss of bone mass and consequently to reduce the complications of the disease.
The recommendation of the investigation is made by the family doctor / specialist (orthopedic, internist, rheumatologist, endocrinologist) when patients show signs of a bone condition.
Performing osteodensitometry is recommended for women after menopause, but also for men over the age of 50, especially if they are smokers or have undergone long-term cortisone treatment.
Performing osteodensitometry involves scanning the body with X-rays, the radiation dose being very low, while the precision and sensitivity of the method are maximum. The investigation can be done early, from the detection of the first favorable factors and allows the quantification of the bone mineral density at the level of the entire skeleton – the “whole – body” investigation or at the level of the segments of maximum fragility (hip, spine, forearm).
