Practice DXAs
Case 3
Situation:
72-year-old currently on estrogen.
Risk Factors:
- Current smoker
DXA Report:
Average density of L1 through L4 is 1.119 grams/cm2. Values are 140 percent that of age-matched mean (2.90 SD above 72-year-old mean) and 107 percent that of young-normal mean (0.65 SD above 30-year-old mean).
Computer-generated image shows mild lumbar scoliosis to the right and sclerosis of the T12/L1 junction, all of L2, and the superior aspect of L3.
Average density of the left femoral neck is 0.790 grams/cm2 (T = -2.55).
Average density of the left hip overall is 106 percent that of age-matched mean (0.39 SD above 72-year-old mean), and 84 percent that of young-normal mean (1.24 SD below 25-year-old mean).
Does she have osteoporosis, osteopenia, or normal bone density? How do you explain the differences in her hip and spine measurements? Would you treat this patient with medications for low bone density?
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