ADAM Health Encyclopedia

Bone density scan

A bone density scan measures the density of bone in a person. The lower the density of a bone the higher the risk of fractures. A bone scan, along with a patient's medical history, is a useful aid in evaluating the probability of a fracture and whether any preventative treatment is needed. A bone density scan has the advantage of being painless and exposing the patient to only a small amount of radiation.

Review Date: 10/30/2007
Reviewed By: David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

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