Radiographic techniques for early detection of osteoporosis

Sequelae of osteoporosis such as fracture and deformities usually occur when the bone mass has been severely reduced. Since the lost bone mass cannot be replaced, management of osteoporosis is aimed at preventing, halting, or retarding its progression. Early detection of osteoporosis and the identification of individuals at high risk for the disease are crucial if therapy is to be effective. Several radiographic techniques are currently available for osteoporosis screening, including dual photon absorptiometry (DPA), quantitative computed tomography (QCT), and dual-energy radiographic absorptiometry (DRA). This paper discusses the relative value and limitations of these techniques.