Medical abbreviation:
DXA, DEXA
Type:
Radiology
Definition:
A DEXA scan involves firing x-ray beams at bone and seeing how much of the x-rays are absorbed and how much of the x-rays pass through, this information is processed by a computer which provides a score for the density of the bone. The denser the bone, then the less likely it is to fracture (break). The scan normally takes 10-20 minutes.
When would I need this test?
DEXA scanning is used to diagnose osteoporosis; this may be suspected if you have had an early menopause, multiple fractures, long history of steroid use or previous x-rays which have raised suspicions of osteoporosis. For more information, please read our osteoporosis article.
Important
You must not have a DEXA scan if you are pregnant, as x-rays are potentially harmful to an unborn baby
Risks
The risks of Duel energy x-ray absorptiometry are small, you are exposed to low energy x-rays, approximately the same dose as a chest x-ray, which is regarded as a relatively small exposure.
