Bone Mineral Density Tests (cont.)
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What Is a Bone Mineral Density Test?
Bone mineral density tests measure the solidness and mass (bone density) in the spine, hip, and/or wrist (the most common sites of fractures due to osteoporosis). Some bone mineral density tests measure bone in the heel or hand. These tests are performed like X-ray films, and they are the only reliable way to determine loss of bone mass. They are painless, noninvasive, and safe.
Doctors examine bone mineral density test results to do the following:
Medically Reviewed by a Doctor on 12/23/2014
Mythili Seetharaman, MD
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Osteoporosis is a systemic skeletal disease characterized by low bone mass and micro-architectural deterioration of bone tissue, with a consequent increase in bone fragility and susceptibility to bone fracture.