Bone Densitometry

Osteoporosis is a metabolic disease affecting the skeleton, which causes a reduction in the amount of bony tissue. Bones are weakened as these tissues are reabsorbed or taken up by local cells. At the core, bones become less dense, on the perimeter, cortical bones lose thickness. Complications from osteoporosis arise as bones become thinner, more porous and susceptible to fractures.

Type I or Post – Menopausal Osteoporosis

• Usually occurs in women menopause. At this time the ovaries produce less estrogen, a female sex hormone. In the absence of estrogen, bone reabsorption decreases, dropping overall bone mass below the maintenance density level, leading to a high risk of fractures.

Type II or Age Related Osteoporosis

• Age Related Osteoporosis – Inflicts both women and men aged more 70 years. Older people have added risk of low bone mass because bone density peaks at the age of 35 and decreases gradually. The ability to absorb calcium from the intestine decreases, thus reducing the calcium inside the body. Also, older people are slightly Vit D deficient, leading to decreased calcium absorption from the intestine. Bone formation responds to physical stress and thus, less activity also decreases bone strength.

Osteoporosis may go unnoticed if it is asymptomatic. Signs that there has been a reduction in bone mass include:

• Lower back pain.
• Loss of teeth and height over time often accompanied by a stooped posture.
• Minimal trauma fractures, i.e., fractures occurring without the application of significant force. As bone density decreases the risk of fracture increases.