Bone Density Test - Essential in Bangalore

Bone Density Test in Bangalore

The bone density test, or Dual Energy X-Ray Absorptiometry (DEXA), is an upgraded form of X-ray technology. It is also called bone densitometry, which measures bone mineral density or bone loss in any individual. It is usually done in the lower abdominal area, but the whole body can be scanned if required.

A bone density test or DEXA scan tells the bone status whether the bones are in a normal state or have a low bone density (osteopenia or osteoporosis). It is the only test available to diagnose osteoporosis. The tests predict bone strength, fracture risk, tell the most recent bone condition, monitor treatment, and provide information about post-fracture osteoporosis.

Bone density test cost in Bangalore:

The cost of the bone density in Bangalore or DEXA test may not be the same; it may be variable from place to place. But Redcliffe Labs, a chain of diagnostic centres, offers the best negotiable prices, which are the same everywhere, making them easily affordable for everyone.

This test is a useful tool to scan the bones to find out the strength and probability of fractures. The test is also known as a bone mineral density test in Bangalore. It takes just a few minutes to perform this test, and it is a completely noninvasive method. It doesn't even require a blood sample like other tests. But the test is entirely different from a bone scan in which radioactive contrast material is administered into the blood.

Bone density testing is often used to detect osteoporosis or osteopenia in women. This condition often occurs in females after menopause, in which bones become weak or fragile. Some structural and hormonal changes may lead to thin bones, which may likely break easily.

A bone density test in Bangalore is often recommended in the following conditions, as given below:

• People with a family history of fractures, especially in the lower abdomen area (hip).
• People who smoke frequently or drink heavily and have done so for a long time.
• Post-menopausal women and the elderly population.
• A male with rheumatoid arthritis and liver or kidney disease requires a DEXA test.
• People who are on certain medications, such as steroids or anti-seizure medication, may also need a bone densitometry test.
• People who have a family history of osteoporosis, as well as those who have insulin-dependent diabetes, hormonal imbalance, and thyroid disease, are at a higher risk.
• In case of vitamin D deficiency and people who are physically inactive
• Excessive intake of alcohol and caffeine.
• People who have a low BMI.
• 65-year-old females and older.
• Males who are 70 years old or more.
• People who are more likely to suffer a bone fracture after the age of 50.
• A postmenopausal female with risk factors.
• Males between the ages of 50 and 70 have risk factors.
• If the x-ray shows a bone fracture in the spinal area.

Before going for DEXA screening, do follow some precautions:

• Do not take calcium or any bone supplements for 24 hours.
• If you have already had a CT scan, wait for another 10 to 15 days before undergoing DXA screening.
• In the case of pregnancy, do tell your physician before this test.

The bone density test has the following advantages:

• It’s a quick, painless, and simple procedure that doesn’t require anaesthesia.
• The used radiation is extremely low compared to the standard X-rays. So, there is no harm in DEXA radiation.
• It can accurately measure the risk of fractures and is one of the best methods for osteoporosis detection.
• It is also very useful in assessing the need for bone treatment.
• Bone density testing is also used to track the treatment of bone-related conditions, including bone loss or osteoporosis.
• The test also helps in the assessment of the risk of developing fractures in any individual.

The test measures the mineral content of the bone and is known as the gold standard and most accurate test for analyzing the bone density of a person. A test can be performed by using a CT scan connected with software or the dual-energy X-ray method (DXA). It helps doctors detect a low bone mass, in which the bone tends to break easily. 

Redcliffe Labs has made all the diagnostic tests easily available at a fair price, including thebone density test cost in Bangalore.

Evaluation of bone density test results:

The results from a DEXA scan can be analyzed by a radiologist or rheumatologist to assess certain risk factors like chronic liver, kidney, or respiratory illness, rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, or any other illness.

Usually, a central DXA machine is used to detect bone density in the hip and spine areas, which have more chances of fractures and disability and also take more time to recover. But for the other body parts, screening tests (QUS, pDXA, pQCT) are used to detect the bone density in the lower wrist, arm, heels, and fingers.

Risk factors associated with fractures are: family history of low-intensity fractures in parents, osteoporosis-linked disorders that include diabetes, hyperthyroidism, long-term deficiency of vitamin D and calcium, low body weight, and early menopause.

T and Z score:

The results of the DXA test depend on the T and Z scores. The T score is used to analyze the probability of fracture and, on the basis of this score, the physician decides whether the treatment is required or not required. Someone may need further tests if the Z score is found to be high or low.

Value for normal bone density: T score in the range of +1 to -1 does not require any treatment. However, they should take an early step to strengthen their bones by doing exercise and taking the proper amount of vitamin D and calcium.

Value for low bone mass: Osteopenia is a term used to describe a condition characterized by low bone density or mass. Here, bone density becomes lower than normal but not as low as in osteoporosis. If not prevented, a high risk of bone loss may occur. In this case, bone T-score values are found in the range of -1.1 to -2.4.

Values for osteoporosis: For people with osteoporosis, the bone density value, or T-score, is -2.5 or less than this value. So, in such a case, osteoporosis medication should be taken quickly, including vitamin D and calcium, and a daily exercise routine should be established.

What is the purpose of a bone density test in Bangalore?

In the case of weak or thin bones (osteoporosis) and low bone mass (osteopenia), a physician may recommend a bone density test in Bangalore. The early test is helpful in the prevention of bone fractures and associated complications, especially in elderly people and individuals with high-risk conditions as described above. A baseline bone density test is also advised for certain cancers to check the bone status.

When to repeat the bone density test?

Individuals who are taking osteoporosis medication should repeat the test every year.

How does the bone density test assist?

• The test is useful in confirming osteoporosis.
• It gives an idea of the bone loss rate.
• It determines the treatment outcome and the likelihood of future fractures.

Bone density by the DEXA scan:

It is a method of determining bone strength based on age. It is also known as the bone density or densitometry test, DEXA (dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry), or simply the DXA test. It can also measure muscle mass and body fat as well.

A DXA scan measures the bone density or bone strength of larger bones such as the spine and hip, but it can also measure the density of small bones like fingers, wrists, or heels. For this purpose, the DXA scanner can be connected with peripheral devices to perform this task, and it uses a smaller amount of radiation compared to the standard X-ray used for chest examination.

This test uses standard reference values of healthy people of the same age, race, and gender, which can be compared with the patient's DXA test in the form of a T score or Z score to find out the exact condition of the patient's bone. Negative values of T or Z scores show more bone damage or loss. The Bone density test is a useful test to identify the severe form of bone loss or osteoporosis (weak and less dense bones) and the mild form of bone loss or osteopenia. Apart from these conditions, postmenopausal conditions, vertebral deformity, and previous fractures also need bone density tests.

The scanner is passed over the concerned bone area of the skeleton being examined under the low-dose radiation beam for a short time. Then, the images produced by it are examined by the expert to determine the bone loss or fracture risk. The bone analysis allows the physician to offer crucial measures to protect the bones. But it should be noted that this test doesn't reveal fractures or infections related to the bones.

Bone density test near me:

Anyone can book the bone density test easily on the website of "Redcliffe Labs" or its nearest centre. All the contact numbers, including whats-app services, are available to get the best offer regarding the bone density test price in Bangalore.