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Published in: Osteoporosis International 11/2004

01-11-2004 | Review

Fundamentals and pitfalls of bone densitometry using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA)

Author: Nelson B. Watts

Published in: Osteoporosis International | Issue 11/2004

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Abstract

Measurement of bone mineral density (BMD) with central dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) is the current “gold standard” for diagnosing osteoporosis and for monitoring patients. Errors in demographic information, improper patient positioning, incorrect scan analysis, and mistakes in interpretation can all lead to a wrong clinical decision or action. This paper reviews the fundamentals of positioning, scan analysis, and interpretation for central DXA and highlights some of the common pitfalls that may lead to erroneous results.
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Metadata
Title
Fundamentals and pitfalls of bone densitometry using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA)
Author
Nelson B. Watts
Publication date
01-11-2004
Publisher
Springer-Verlag
Published in
Osteoporosis International / Issue 11/2004
Print ISSN: 0937-941X
Electronic ISSN: 1433-2965
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s00198-004-1681-7

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