ISSN:
0736-0266
Keywords:
Bone density
;
Osteoporosis
;
Single-beam densitometry
;
Bone loss with age
;
Life and Medical Sciences
Source:
Wiley InterScience Backfile Collection 1832-2000
Topics:
Medicine
Notes:
This is a cross-sectional study of bone densitometry in 〉700 normal healthy white women ranging in age from 18 to 98 years. A modified procedure for single-photon bone density analysis of the distal radius is described and compared with dual-photon densitometric measurements of the second through fourth lumbar vertebrae. The distal radial site measured was separated from the ulna by 5 mm. This “5 mm” site was characterized according to trabecular and cortical bone content, measurement reproducibility, positioning precision, and the effects of wrist pronation or supination. The radial site demonstrated a bone density loss of 〈0.1%/year for normal women 25-50 years of age, increasing to 0.7%/year after 50 years of age. In contrast to the variability and inconsistency obtained by us and others utilizing the standard “9/10” site, bone loss with age at the new “5 mm” site correlated closely with generalized bone mineral loss of the axial skeleton. We suggest that there is a unique role for single-beam densitometric measurements of the radius, permitting the rapid and relatively inexpensive evaluation of large populations of women without requiring a visit to a medical center. Such a process can select those requiring further evaluation or medical attention.
Additional Material:
6 Ill.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1002/jor.1100020402
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