confirming the diagnosis of osteoporosis
Last reviewed 07/2021
Diagnosis is usually confirmed on bone mineral density measurement by finding a T score of less than -2.5. If however there is a fragility fracture this may not be necessary. Helpful investigations include:
- Bone scintigraphy to look for fractures, particularly of the ribs
- review previous spinal X-rays
- measure bone density
- Bone biopsy usually if the diagnosis is in doubt.
plain radiography in the diagnosis of osteoporosis