Clinical application of densitometry

An early diagnosis of osteoporosis and an accurate estimation of treatment outcome are the focus of the radiological efforts. The most commonly applie d methods for the evaluation of the peripheral and axial skeleton are dual x-rax absorptiometry, quantitative computed tomography,and quantitative ult rasound. Data of an individual are generally compared to an age-, sex-, and ethically matched control population. The bone mass measurement predict a patients future risk of fracture and the presence of osteoporosis can be di agnosed even in the absence of prevalent fractures. Fracture risk increases approximately 1.5-2.5 times for every 1.0 standard deviation an individual 's bone mass is below the mean peak mass of healthy young individuals (T-sc ore). The choice of the appropriate measurement sites may vary depending on the specific circumstances of the patient. The choice of the appropriate t echnique in any given clinical circumstance should be based on the strength and limitations of the different techniques.