Dual X-ray Absorptiometry in Today's Clinical Practice

Central DXA is rapid, reliable, and the most commonly used method of measuring bone mineral density in clinical practice. Although interpretation of clinical DXA scans is generally straightforward, it is important for the interpreting physician to be aware of common pitfalls and to maintain rigorous quality assurance. A firm understanding of the clinical utility of DXA allows the interpreting physician to provide valuable recommendations to treating clinicians, thereby improving the care of patients with osteoporosis. This article describes the current approach to and recent advances in the clinical use of central DXA.