Bone Density Measurement Using DEXA and Z-Score Interpretation

We utilized Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) to measure the bone density data of a subset of patients. DEXA is an instrument that quantifies the bone mineral density (BMD) of the samples (bones). The obtained BMD value is subsequently compared to the mean BMD of a large, age- and gender-matched normal population, resulting in the calculation of a standard deviation (SD) value. This value represents the age-appropriate Z-scores. A Z-score below -1 is indicative of reduced bone mass.