The Diagnosis of Osteoporosis, Including Opportunistic Computed Tomography: A Narrative Review

Osteoporosis is the most common metabolic bone disease with a high prevalence in the elderly population. The diagnosis is straightforward when a fragility fracture at major skeletal sites (hip, vertebrae, humerus, distal radius) occurs. However, the diagnosis may be challenging in the absence of fractures or when, even with a fracture (morphometric vertebral), no symptoms are reported by the patient.

In recent years, there has been a huge advancement in diagnostic imaging modalities with particular interest in measuring skeletal resistance. Each technique has inherent advantages and disadvantages. In this narrative review, we discuss all diagnostic modalities from bone mineral density to more sophisticated techniques.

It is hoped that a greater utilization of opportunistic CT will increase patient screening with consequent advantages for patient care and future fraction prevention.