ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses the clinical utility of bone densitometry in evaluating bone status. Although primary osteoporosis is the main use of bone densitometry, it is also used to assess bone status in paediatrics, subjects with secondary osteoporosis and arthritis. Bone fragility and health can be quantified by measuring the bone mass in regions of interest throughout the body. In 1994, the World Health Organization (WHO) established a definition for osteoporosis and its milder form, osteopenia based on either bone mineral content or bone mineral density alone. The WHO’s definition of osteoporosis was based on the notion that bio-mechanical competence of the skeleton is optimal among young adults but is degraded as bone loss occurs with ageing. However, there may not be a unique age for peak bone mass that applies consistently to all skeletal sites. In a clinical setting, the essential role of bone densitometry is to identify patients at risk of osteoporotic fracture.
