Will a Bone Scan Show Osteoporosis?

To diagnose osteoporosis and assess your risk of fracture and determine your need for treatment, your doctor will most likely order a bone density scan. This exam is used to measure bone mineral density (BMD). It is most commonly performed using dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA or DEXA) or bone densitometry.

Is a bone scan the same as a bone density test?

Bone density tests differ from bone scans. Bone scans require an injection beforehand and are usually used to detect fractures, cancer, infections and other abnormalities in the bone. Although osteoporosis is more common in older women, men also can develop the condition.

Does osteoporosis show up on a bone scan?

A bone density scan is used to: Diagnose osteopenia (low bone mass) Diagnose osteoporosis.