Bone Scans Provide Insight Into Bone Health

Women over 65 have an increased risk of losing bone density–which also increases their chances of breaking a bone. To screen for conditions that weaken bones, bone mineral density testing, often called a DEXA test, is used to diagnose osteoporosis, predict fracture risk and monitor results of therapy.

Providers use Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry (DEXA) scans to diagnose osteoporosis, osteopenia, and other conditions that cause bones to become thin or weak. Osteopenia is the initial stage of bone loss, whereas osteoporosis is a more severe form. The scan uses low-level x-rays, with no needles or injections, and lasts about 30 minutes.

“Decreasing bone mass is universal in all women as they age,” said Christine Alexander-Decker, MD, endocrinologist with Saratoga Hospital. She said the loss of estrogen protection on the skeleton leads to a greater amount of bone breakdown. “By measuring bone mineral density, patients and their physicians can determine whether a conservative treatment course is an option, or a more aggressive course and the need to initiate bone protective medications.”

Those medications may include bisphosphonates, which can slow down the rate of bone breakdown, or anabolic agents that can help make bones stronger.

Conservative treatments include exercise, such as walking, yoga, and strength training, getting enough calcium and vitamin D, and implementing fall prevention measures, said Dr. Alexander-Decker.

“Some women lose bone earlier and faster, some lose bone slower and later, but the loss of bone in post-menopausal women is universal. Unfortunately, no one is spared,” said Dr. Alexander-Decker.

“Some women are quite surprised and disappointed to find out that they have low bone mass when they believe they have been healthy and have worked hard at living healthy to try and prevent bone loss,” she added.

Women can face an even higher risk of fractures though if they have family history of hip fracture, low body weight, current cigarette smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, rheumatoid arthritis, and Type 2 diabetes. Other secondary causes include early menopause, chronic liver disease, inflammatory bowel disease, and malabsorption disorders, such as celiac disease. Initial bone scans are recommended for women 65 and over and younger women aged 50-64 who have risk factors.

See DEXA scan locations in the Albany Med Health System.