Position statements of the International Society for Clinical Densitometry: methodology

Given the need for authoritative positions in areas of controversy in the field of bone densitometry, the International Society for Clinical Densitometry (ISCD) convened a Position Development Conference in Denver, CO, USA, in July 2001. Four general areas were selected on the basis of clinical importance and likelihood of reaching agreement. These areas were discussed at length prior to the conference by the Scientific Advisory Committee of the ISCD and presented to a panel of experts at the conference. The four areas included discussions of (1). the regions of interest of central dual X-ray densitometry (DXA), (2). the criteria by which a densitometric diagnosis of osteoporosis can be made in men and non-Caucasian women, (3). the role of serial BMD measurements in patient management, and (4). the standards by which bone mass measurements at peripheral sites should be used in the diagnosis of osteoporosis. Details of the methodology used at the conference are discussed. The following papers explain the results of the discussions and describe the official ISCD positions.