ABSTRACT
DESCRIPTION Although skeletal X-rays may provide a pointer to the existence of osteoporosis (e.g. wedge-compression fracture of lumbar vertebrae), it is necessary to measure bone density in order to make an accurate diagnosis. Several different methods exist, but the use of dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) has emerged as the most acceptable technique in terms of reproducibility and its ability to measure bone mass at both axial and appendicular sites. Very low doses of radiation are used.
