Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 19, 2026
Scanning Skeletal Remains for Bone Mineral Density in Forensic Contexts
Published on: January 29, 2018
Association of lumbar fractures, abdominal aortic calcification, and osteopenia
Tarek N Hanna1, Matthew E Zygmont1, Elie Harmouche2
1Division of Emergency Radiology, Department of Radiology and Imaging Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA.
Purpose:
The purpose was to assess if abdominal aortic calcification (AAC) and low bone mineral density (BMD) are associated with fractures on lumbar spine radiographs in trauma patients.
Methods:
Retrospectively, 303 consecutive lumbar radiographs were independently reviewed by two radiologists for AAC, low BMD, and traumatic findings.
Results:
Thirty-one percent of patients had low BMD, 34% had AAC, and 24% had both. Eleven percent of radiographs showed traumatic findings. Seventy-six percent of positive cases had low BMD (P<.001), and 64% had AAC (P<.001).
Conclusion:
A higher index of suspicion for fractures is warranted when AAC and low BMD are present.
Related Concept Videos
01:21Aneurysm II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies
01:29Bone Disorders
Bone deposition is also affected by the levels of sex hormones like estrogen and testosterone that promote osteoblast activity and bone matrix synthesis. When the level of these hormones decreases due to aging, it causes a reduction in bone deposition. As a result, bone resorption by osteoclasts...
01:25Imaging Studies for Cardiovascular System VI: Calcium -Scoring CT