What factors can influence DXA results?

• A. Patient’s age
• B. Exposure time
• C. Body thickness
• D. All of the above

Answer: (C)

The correct answer encompasses a broad range of factors that can influence the results obtained from Dual-energy X-ray Absorptiometry (DXA) scans. Patient age is significant as bone density typically changes with age; for instance, bones may become less dense as a person ages due to hormonal changes, particularly post-menopause in women.

Exposure time, while less frequently discussed, can also impact image quality and interpretability of results. Longer exposure times might lead to more detailed images but also increase the radiation dose, which is an important consideration in risk assessment.

Body thickness directly affects the measurement by altering the amount of tissue the X-rays must pass through. Thicker body areas may lead to lower apparent bone density readings due to attenuation effects, which can misrepresent actual bone density levels.

Considerations such as all these factors are crucial in ensuring accurate DXA assessments, highlighting why the most comprehensive answer is the one that includes all of them.