What information can be used to determine a patient's peak bone height?

• A. Height measurements at age 20
• B. X-ray results of the vertebrae
• C. Drivers license
• D. Recent DXA scan results

Answer: (C)

To determine a patient's peak bone height accurately, height measurements taken at a young age, such as around age 20, are the most reliable indicators. This is generally when individuals reach their maximum bone density and height before the natural aging process begins, which includes factors like bone loss.

Height measurements captured at this age can be compared to current measurements to assess changes that may indicate bone loss due to conditions like osteoporosis. X-ray results of the vertebrae can provide insight into bone health but are not specifically used to assess peak height. Similarly, a driver's license might state the individual's height, but it does not provide the historical data needed to determine peak bone height. Recent DXA scan results focus on bone density rather than physical height and do not serve the purpose of establishing peak height directly.

Understanding peak bone height is crucial when evaluating an individual's bone health, and using height measurements from early adulthood provides a clearer picture of bone status.