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Accuracy of DEXA Scans
I am guessing that I am not the only one facing a medication decision based on one DEXA scan with no fractures. That raises the question as to how much reliance we should put on that single measurement. I trust that sites calibrate the instruments according to the manufacturer's specifications. But we read about the importance of proper positioning. I was only asked to lie on a table with no special consideration of position. Does improper position make bones appear denser or less dense? Or is the effect minimal?
Remember the old weight charts that had ideal weight ranges by height and bone structure? Does DEXA factor in bone structure when calculating density. Obviously, there is less bone for the x-rays to penetrate for a fine-boned person than for a heavy-boned one. That could be interpreted has having less bone mineral density which may not be the case.
Any insight or other pertinent questions?
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Hello! Can someone tell me exactly is the FRAX score? I've seen it but not paid attention. Any info appreciated. Thank you!
https://www.menopause.org/for-women/menopauseflashes/bone-health-and-heart-health/frax-sup-sup-a-tool-for-estimating-your-fracture-risk
@normahorn, you wrote: "Does DEXA factor in bone structure when calculating density. Obviously, there is less bone for the x-rays to penetrate for a fine-boned person than for a heavy-boned one. That could be interpreted has having less bone mineral density which may not be the case."
My understanding, if I understand your question correctly, is that bone structure is not factored into DXA scans. I have heard from a few experts (YouTube, not in person because I can't find any here) that fine-boned people will always have lower bone density scores for the reason you named.
@andreamayo
Hi, my most recent DXA/TBS scan. I was kinda surprised it was so high. I do have insurance but this was at a 1 yr interval.
So @rola you had improvement? Can you remind us what treatment you did for one year?
@windyshores
No, not at all, I wish Windy! Was answering the question about what test cost $900 to Andrea. I spent the last year trying my best with lifestyle changes and it did nothing. In general was a good move. My appt is in April with my Rheum & will probably start tymlos, as long as my insurance cooperates. Unfortunately, she already said we don't do P1NP, yet has ordered an NTX in the past. I hope to convince her to order both before starting and that's why I wanted this 1yr DEXA.. So nervous, yet everyone on connect has been so helpful, I rely on it.
I'm reading @normahorn's comments abt CLL and Evenity, and oh my word! My oncologist who I had a telemed in NJ (before I read her comment) quickly stated, "no issue taking osteo meds with CLL, when asked." I finally decided to reach out to Moffit, I've been in FL 4yrs already, so I need to search out good Drs. Not fun🙁! Now I have appt's lined up and a petscan ordered by their CLL, Dr Tong, hoping for more insight into both issues.
One endo I saw for a second opinion mentioned that she thought Forteo MIGHT be contraindicated by my CLL. I did not pursue further as I cannot see me doing daily injections. I am not good at doing anything daily but am managing to take my BP medication on a daily basis (supplements are taken at the same time).
If we are excluded from trials, how would we know what is safe for us!
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Hug
2 ReactionsSo true, and why have they excluded us, the unknowns, we need to know about.
The MD has to be sure to say the bone marker tests are medically necessary or they will not be covered.
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3 ReactionsThank you, I'm going to try my best.