[Radiologic diagnosis of osteoporosis. Current methods and outlook]

Osteoporosis is defined as a decrease in bone mass and structural changes in bone leading to an increase in fractures. Early diagnosis as quantification of prophylaxis and treatment are of great interest. A number of non-invasive techniques are available for measuring bone mass at multiple sites of the skeleton. This article reviews basic methodology and developments in radiography as in x-ray or gamma photon absorptiometry, quantitative computed tomography, ultrasound velocity and attenuation and magnetic resonance imaging. Clinical applications of these methods are discussed. The still experimental use of ultrasound and MRI in assessment of bone-mineral content may also give information on bone quality.