If bone loss is a real possibility, there must be no question as to the option of the course of action which is to commit to a bone mineral density (BMD) test to get a first hand information as to the medical condition of the bones right at that time. The results of the test expressed as T-score and Z-score are relevant in the sense that they provide the foundation of medical treatment that will be given to the patient. How these bone density T-score and Z-score are analyzed constitute the main concerns.

The World Health Organization (WHO) reviewed the global data on the testing of bone mass and the risks of fractures in 1994. The T-score and the Z-score were used as sets of standards that allow the comparison of results to people with normal bone masses. A deviation from the normal is taken to indicate lower bone density.

In what context can the bone density T-score be taken? The T-score is actually a mathematical expression showing the standard deviation from the mean of the sample taken from a particular reference population. For this purpose, a standard is used, a healthy 30 year-old belonging to the same sex, is used to make a comparison of their bone biomass. The deviation is expressed to indicate the status of the bone health of the patient. Normal values are from -1.0 through +1.0 while high bone densities have T-scores of +1.0 through +4.0. Low bone density is indicated by values below -1.0. T-scores of -1.0 through -2.5 indicate osteopenia while lower than -2.5 suggest the presence of osteoporosis.

What is meant by bone density Z-score? The Z-score is actually derived by comparing the bone density of the patient to another adult that has the same sex and age. The assumption is that the standard used manifest healthy bone mass. Low bone densities and rapid bone loss are signs associated with a Z-score lower than -2.0. Z-scores are useful as they may also reflect possible occurrence of secondary osteoporosis due to certain complicating diseases or medications.

Using bone density T-score and Z-score provide useful basis in establishing the true state of bone health of a patient. Their examination is critical for all stakeholders. The interest and attention paid to the results will guarantee the attainment of objectives with regards the management of osteoporosis and associated risks.

Etiketler: bone density, bone density t-score, bone density z-score, bone mineral density

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1. Health Online
   02 AÄŸustos 2011
   

   Thanks for sharing

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