bone mineral density scan

Definition / meaning of bone mineral density scan

An imaging test that measures bone density (the amount of bone mineral contained in a certain volume of bone) by passing x-rays with two different energy levels through the bone. It is used to diagnose osteoporosis (decrease in bone mass and density). Also called BMD scan, DEXA, DEXA scan, dual energy x-ray absorptiometric scan, dual x-ray absorptiometry, and DXA.

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Source(s):

The Web site of the National Cancer Institute (http://www.cancer.gov/)

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