What does the summary graph in a BMD report display?

• A. A detailed breakdown of patient history
• B. A comparison of previous and current BMD results
• C. Only the T-scores from the current scan
• D. A visual representation of bone quality

Answer: (B)

The summary graph in a Bone Mineral Density (BMD) report is designed to provide a visual comparison of the patient's previous and current bone density results. This graphical representation allows clinicians to easily assess changes in bone density over time, which is crucial for monitoring the progress of bone health, the effectiveness of treatments, or the progression of osteopenia or osteoporosis.

By displaying both past and current BMD results, the graph helps physicians make informed decisions regarding patient management—including the need for interventions or adjustments in treatment plans. It's a valuable tool that simplifies complex data and highlights trends that may not be immediately apparent in numeric form alone. This visualization facilitates communication of results to both healthcare providers and patients, ensuring better understanding and engagement in continued care.