How should you label the Lumbar Spine on a DXA scan?

• A. Start at L1 and work down to L4
• B. Start at L4 and work up to L1
• C. Label in alphabetical order
• D. Label randomly

Answer: (B)

The proper approach to labeling the Lumbar Spine on a DXA scan is to start at L4 and work up to L1. This sequence is important for accurately assessing and documenting bone mineral density (BMD) at the lumbar spine, which typically involves evaluating the vertebral bodies in order from the most distal (L4) to the most proximal (L1).

By beginning at L4 and moving up to L1, the labeling reflects the anatomical positioning of the lumbar vertebrae, which is crucial for consistency and clarity in interpreting results. This is particularly relevant when following clinical protocols or guidelines for diagnosing conditions like osteoporosis, as the data is often compared against standardized reference values that expect this order for assessment. This method not only ensures accurate identification of each vertebra but also aligns with common practice in radiology and densitometry evaluations.