Imaging methods for bone mass evaluation during childhood and adolescence: an update

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Imaging
• Bone Health Assessment
• Adolescent Medicine

Background:

• Accurate bone evaluation is crucial during childhood and adolescence for identifying potential health issues.
• Existing imaging techniques have limitations in assessing bone mass in pediatric populations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide an updated review of imaging methods for bone evaluation in children and adolescents.
• To analyze the advantages, disadvantages, and clinical applicability of various bone imaging techniques.

Main Methods:

• Literature search of original and review articles from BIREME and PubMed (2006-2016).
• Keywords included bone density, osteoporosis diagnosis, densitometry, tomography, ultrasonography, MRI, and radiogrammetry.
• Analysis focused on imaging methods for bone mass assessment up to 20 years old.

Main Results:

• Dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) remains the gold standard for low bone mass diagnosis, though interpretation in pediatric patients is complex.
• Quantitative computed tomography (QCT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) assess true bone density but are not yet routine.
• Quantitative bone ultrasound (QUS) shows potential for primary prevention, and automated radiogrammetry may help identify individuals needing further assessment.

Conclusions:

• DXA is the current standard for pediatric bone mass assessment, requiring expert interpretation.
• Emerging technologies like QCT, MRI, QUS, and radiogrammetry offer potential advancements but need further validation for widespread clinical adoption.
• Continued research is necessary to establish the full clinical value of newer bone imaging modalities in pediatric populations.