Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 7, 2026

Scanning Skeletal Remains for Bone Mineral Density in Forensic Contexts
Published on: January 29, 2018
[Monitoring anti-osteoporotic therapy: bone mineral density or markers of bone turnover]
Søren Bønløkke Pedersen1, Michael Schønemann Rand, Pia A Eiken
1michael.schoenemann.rand@regionh.dk.
Abstract:
This review discusses two methods of monitoring the effect of anti-osteoporotic treatment: bone mineral density (BMD) and bone turnover markers (BTMs). Both monitoring strategies are to some extent able to predict the treatment-induced change in risk of fracture. The use of BMD is commonplace, and clinicians are experienced in the interpretation of data. The use and knowledge of BTMs among clinicians is limited, but it allows for early testing while being practical and cheap. Further knowledge and implementation of BTMs in the clinical practice may improve the monitoring capabilities.
Related Concept Videos
Essential Minerals for Bone Health
Calcium and Phosphorus
Calcium is a critical component of bones, especially in the form of calcium phosphate and calcium carbonate. Since the body cannot make calcium, it must be obtained from the diet. However, calcium cannot be absorbed from the small intestine without...
Bone Structure
Bone Remodeling
Compact Bone
Compact bone, also called cortical bone, is the denser, stronger of the two types of bone tissue. It is found under the periosteum and in the diaphyses of long bones, where it provides support and protection. The microscopic structural unit of compact bone is called an osteon, or haversian system. Each osteon is composed of concentric rings of calcified...
Bone 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...
The Hyoid Bone

