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Archives of Osteoporosis

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01-12-2020 | Osteoporosis | Original Article

Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry bone densitometry and pitfalls in the assessment of osteoporosis: a primer for the practicing clinician

Authors: Chen Pong Wong, Linsey Utami Gani, Le Roy Chong

Published in: Archives of Osteoporosis | Issue 1/2020

Abstract

Summary

A guide to the clinician on the use of dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry bone densitometry for the management of osteoporosis and the importance of recognizing its pitfalls.

Purpose

Osteoporosis is a major risk factor for severe fractures in the aging population worldwide, posing a serious public health issue. Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) is and remains the main tool for screening of osteoporosis and monitoring of osteoporosis treatment through quantitative measurement of bone mineral density (BMD). Employing DXA to measure BMD is not without pitfalls. We set out to analyze and classify the potential pitfalls of DXA acquisitions and BMD measurements encountered in clinical practice in our institution.

Methods

Technical inaccuracies and discrepancies in BMD interpretation in the history of our department were analyzed and classified into different categories of pitfalls.

Results

We found that major pitfalls of BMD acquisition and interpretation using DXA can be classified into technical, patient, and interpretive factors. These are illustrated with case examples.

Conclusion

Good technical understanding of BMD measurements using DXA and recognition of potential pitfalls allow for greater technical and interpretive accuracy, which together hopefully increases the precision of osteoporosis management when practiced in accordance with established clinical guidelines.

Available only for authorised users

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Title: Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry bone densitometry and pitfalls in the assessment of osteoporosis: a primer for the practicing clinician
Authors: Chen Pong Wong
Linsey Utami Gani
Le Roy Chong
Publication date: 01-12-2020
Publisher: Springer London
Keywords: Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis
Published in: Archives of Osteoporosis / Issue 1/2020
Print ISSN: 1862-3522
Electronic ISSN: 1862-3514
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11657-020-00808-2

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry bone densitometry and pitfalls in the assessment of osteoporosis: a primer for the practicing clinician

Abstract

Summary

Purpose

Methods

Results

Conclusion

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Summary

Purpose

Methods

Results

Conclusion

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