What condition is most commonly diagnosed through bone densitometry?

• A. Osteoporosis
• B. Arthritis
• C. Rheumatism
• D. Fractures

Answer: (A)

Bone densitometry, commonly referred to as dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA), is primarily utilized to assess bone mineral density (BMD) and is most notably used to diagnose osteoporosis. This condition is characterized by a decrease in bone density, which significantly increases the risk of fractures. The procedure measures the amount of mineral content in the bones, typically in the lumbar spine and hip, which are critical areas where osteoporosis-related fractures frequently occur.

Osteoporosis is often termed a "silent disease" because it doesn’t usually present symptoms until a fracture occurs. Therefore, bone densitometry is essential for early detection and prevention of osteoporosis by allowing healthcare professionals to identify individuals at risk before they experience fractures, enabling them to take preventive actions, such as lifestyle changes or pharmacotherapy.

While arthritis, rheumatism, and fractures are relevant to bone health, they are not specifically diagnosed through bone densitometry. Arthritis usually involves inflammation of the joints, and although it can affect bone health, it is assessed through other imaging modalities. Rheumatism is a broader term that encompasses various conditions related to pain and inflammation in the muscles and joints, which also does not rely on densitometry for diagnosis. Fractures can be resultant of conditions