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Reference ranges for bone densitometers adopted Australia-wide: Geelong osteoporosis study
M J Henry1, J A Pasco, N A Pocock
1The University of Melbourne, Department of Clinical and Biomedical Sciences: Barwon Health, Geelong, Victoria, Australia. margh@BarwonHealth.org.au
Australasian Radiology
|December 17, 2004
Summary
Standardizing bone mineral density (BMD) reference ranges in Australia improves osteoporosis diagnosis. The Geelong Osteoporosis Study (GOS) provides population-based data for consistent fracture risk assessment across densitometers.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Gerontology
- Radiology
Background:
- Bone densitometry is crucial for assessing fracture risk using T-scores and Z-scores.
- Current manufacturer-specific reference ranges lack uniformity, hindering consistent diagnosis.
- Standardization is needed for accurate osteoporosis diagnosis and management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To establish standardized Australian reference ranges for bone mineral density (BMD).
- To enable consistent diagnosis of osteoporosis and fracture risk assessment.
- To facilitate Australia-wide adoption of uniform BMD measurement standards.
Main Methods:
- Utilized data from the Geelong Osteoporosis Study (GOS), a population-based sample of adult women.
- Measured bone mineral density (BMD) at the proximal femur and spine using a Lunar DPX-L densitometer.
- Developed conversion equations to establish reference ranges for Norland and Hologic machines.
Main Results:
- Established new, standardized Australian reference ranges for BMD.
- Enabled BMD data comparability across different densitometer manufacturers.
- Facilitated consistent interpretation of T-scores and Z-scores.
Conclusions:
- The standardized Australian BMD reference ranges will improve osteoporosis diagnosis accuracy.
- Consistent fracture risk categorization is now achievable across various densitometers.
- Adoption of GOS data promotes uniformity in bone health assessment nationwide.