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Diagnosing OsteoporosisPhysical Evaluation, Bone Density Testing and Laboratory TestingOsteoporosis is usually diagnosed using a combination of bone density testing, laboratory tests and a physical exam.
Osteoporosis is a progressive disease that decreases bone density (mass) in the bones and eventually leads to an increased risk of fractures. The diagnosis of osteoporosis is usually made by your physician using a combination of medical history, physical evaluation, laboratory tests and bone mass measurement testing. History and Physical EvaluationA bone density test is the most accurate testing tool used to diagnose osteoporosis. However, it does not tell you why you have low bone density. Are you taking any medications that can lower bone density? Do you have other medical conditions that can accelerate bone loss? Are there factors about your life style and diet that make you more susceptible to osteoporosis? To answer these important questions, you'll need a complete medical evaluation. The history and physical evaluation can help your doctor decide if your diet, lifestyle, medications or medical conditions can cause osteoporosis. Laboratory TestsYour physician may also collect some blood and urine to rule out other medical conditions. A blood test may be done to check calcium, phosphorus, cell counts, alkaline, protein electrophoresis, thyroid and parathyroid hormones and vitamin D levels. These tests cannot diagnose osteoporosis; however, they can help detect secondary causes, such as vitamin D deficiency, thyroid problems, kidney or liver disease, osteomalacia and Pagets disease. A urine test is usually done to determine protein, calcium and hydroxyproline levels. These tests can sometimes determine the amount of calcium being absorbed by the body. Bone Mineral Density TestingThe most accurate and reliable way to diagnose osteoporosis is to have a bone mineral density test (BMD). Bone mineral density tests are also known as a bone mass measurement test, bone mass test, bone densitometry and bone density test. This is a painless and noninvasive scan which measures bone density in the hip, spine, wrist, heel or hand. A bone density test can tell you if you have osteoporosis and also tell you if you’re at risk for fractures. Common Bone Mineral Density (BMD) Tests Include:
The National Osteoporosis Foundation suggests that the following individual receive a bone density test:
Talk to Your DoctorTalk to your doctor about risk factors, symptoms and bone density testing for osteoporosis at your next doctor's visit.
The copyright of the article Diagnosing Osteoporosis in Women’s Health is owned by Melinda Thompson. Permission to republish Diagnosing Osteoporosis in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.
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