A postmenopausal woman with a femoral neck T-score of -2.0 SD below young adult norms is classified as what?

• A. Normal
• B. Osteoporosis
• C. Osteopenia
• D. Severe Osteoporosis

Answer: (C)

A T-score is a measure used in bone densitometry to compare an individual's bone density to that of a healthy young adult. The classification of bone health based on T-scores is essential for diagnosing conditions like osteopenia and osteoporosis.

In this case, a T-score of -2.0 indicates that the woman's bone density is 2 standard deviations below the young adult mean. According to the World Health Organization (WHO) criteria:

• A T-score of -1.0 to -2.5 indicates osteopenia, which is characterized by lower than average bone density but not yet at the level that defines osteoporosis.

• A T-score of -2.5 or lower is used to classify osteoporosis, and if that condition is present along with a history of fractures, it is classified as severe osteoporosis.

Since the woman's T-score is -2.0, she fits the criteria for osteopenia, a condition where bone density is lower than optimal, but it does not warrant a diagnosis of osteoporosis, which requires a T-score of -2.5 or lower. This classification is critical for guiding treatment and management options to prevent further bone loss and reduce fracture risk.