Bone mineral density test
Key points
- A bone mineral density (BMD) test can help your health care provider confirm a diagnosis of osteoporosis.
- Several different kinds of machines can do BMD testing.
- Inform your health care provider if you may be pregnant.
- The scan is painless, although you will need to remain still during the test.
Alternative names
BMD test; Bone density test
Definition
A bone mineral density (BMD) test can help your health care provider confirm a diagnosis of osteoporosis. The test can help in several ways:
- BMD testing is one of the most accurate ways to assess your bone health.
- When repeated over time, it can be used to monitor your rate of bone loss.
- It can detect osteoporosis at its earliest stage, so treatment can begin sooner.
- If you are being treated for osteoporosis, BMD testing can help your health care provider monitor your response to the treatment.
How the test is performed
Several different kinds of machines can do BMD testing. The most common methods use low-dose X-rays (about one-tenth the radiation dose of a chest X-ray). While you are lying in on a cushioned table, a scanner passes over your body. Typically, the machine takes x-rays of your lower spine and hip. In most cases you won't need to undress.
There are portable machines that just measure the bone density in your wrist or heel, and some experts believe these are useful preliminary screening tools that can help identify people who may have osteoporosis. However, your bone density can differ from site to site within your body, so these machines may not give a true picture of your risk of a hip fracture.
How to prepare for the test
Remove any jewelry before the BMD test. Inform your health care provider if you may be pregnant.
How the test will feel
The scan is painless, although you will need to remain still during the test.
Why the test is performed
Your health care provider may request a BMD test to confirm a diagnosis of osteoporosis.
Normal Values
The results of your test are usually reported as a "T score" and "Z score."
- The T score compares your bone density to a 30-year old.
- The Z score compares your bone density to other people of the same age, gender, and race.
In either score, a negative number means you have thinner bones than the standard. The more negative the number, the thinner your bones. A T score is within the normal range if it is a positive number, or at least no more negative than -1.0. (For example, -0.5 is within the normal range, although it is getting borderline.)
Written and revised by
David Cohen, M.D.
Our doctors write and review articles for accuracy and keep them up to date.
health.am provides general information, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified health professional about your own health.