An update on dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry

Dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA) scans to measure bone mineral density at the spine and hip have an important role in the evaluation of individuals at risk of osteoporosis, and in helping clinicians advise patients about the appropriate use of antifracture treatment. Compared with alternative bone densitometry techniques, hip and spine DXA examinations have several advantages that include a consensus that bone mineral density results should be interpreted using the World Health Organization T score definition of osteoporosis, a proven ability to predict fracture risk, proven effectiveness at targeting antifracture therapies, and the ability to monitor response to treatment. This review discusses the evidence for these and other clinical aspects of DXA scanning. Particular attention is directed at the new World Health Organization Fracture Risk Assessment Tool (FRAX) algorithm, which uses clinical risk factors in addition to a hip DXA scan to predict a patient's 10-year probability of suffering an osteoporotic fracture. We also discuss the recently published clinical guidelines that incorporate the FRAX fracture risk assessment in decisions about patient treatment.