DXA scan results, explained
Understand the terms on a bone density scan report before you discuss it with your clinician.
- DXA (or DEXA)
- Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry, a low-dose X-ray that measures bone density, usually at the hip and lower spine.
- T-score
- Compares your bone density with a healthy young adult of the same sex. Used for postmenopausal women and men aged 50 or older.
- Z-score
- Compares your bone density with people of your age, weight, sex and ethnic or racial origin. Used for premenopausal women, men under 50 and children.
- Higher vs lower
- A higher number means greater bone density. The lower the score, the higher the risk of fracture.
T-score ranges
| T-score | What it is called |
|---|---|
| -1.0 or higher | Normal bone density |
| Between -1.0 and -2.5 | Low bone density (osteopenia) |
| -2.5 or lower | Osteoporosis range |
A score alone does not decide treatment. Clinicians also weigh age, fracture history and other risk factors.
Source: MedlinePlus: Bone Density Scan. General information, not medical advice.