Osteoporosis Defined

• Osteoporosis is the condition for which a bone density test is done. Normally, bones have a large number of connective fibers that provide strength. In osteoporotic bone, by contrast, the numbers of connective fibers have lessened, leaving the bones more subject to fracture.
  
  

Testing Methods

• Testing for osteoporosis can be done in more than one way. The primary means of testing for osteoporosis is the dual energy X-ray absorptiometry, or DEXA, scan. This scan takes only about 5 to 10 minutes. It works by using X-rays to calculate how many grams of minerals, including calcium, are in the bone tissue. Another means to do an osteoporosis test is through a quantitative CT scan. The scan takes 10 minutes and works by taking virtual images of the bones. Other peripheral devices also can be used to measure bone density. However, peripheral devices aren't as good for diagnosing osteoporosis because bone density can vary throughout the body.
  
  

Result Categories

• The results of the osteoporosis test fall into three main categories. A level of -1 and above is considered to be normal. A result between -1 and -2.5 is considered below normal, or pre-osteoporotic, and a result less than -2.5 is the point at which osteoporosis is diagnosed.
  
  

Who Should Be Tested

• Testing for osteoporosis is recommended particularly for women. Those who are 65 years or older should get routine testing, as should women who are 60 years or older with increased risk for the condition.
  
  

Risk Factors

• Certain factors increase the risk for osteoporosis and therefore increase the need for osteoporosis testing. Those who are on particular medications may need increased testing, as may those with low body weight, a family history of the condition or who are white or Southeast Asian in ethnicity.
  
  

Problems

• One problem with osteoporosis testing is that, although it can reveal the density of the individual's bones, it cannot diagnose the reason for the loss in bone density. This means that further consultation with a medical professional may be necessary before an individual fully can develop a treatment plan.