DEXA is performed to:

• Determine bone density or to determine bone loss
• Establish the diagnosis of osteopenia or osteoporsis

DEXA is indicated when a patient:

• Has had her ovaries removed
• Has had a hysterectomy
• Has entered menopause
• Has had a previous fracture
• Has an overactive thyroid
• Has had breast cancer
• Has decreased in height
• Has curvature of the upper spine (dowager’s hump)
• Has an intolerance to milk or milk products
• Has a long history of medication exposures:

• Thyroid Replacement Therapy
• Heparin/Blood thinners
• Lithium
• Methotrexate
• Extended Tetracycline usage
• Extended diuretic usage
• Depo Provera
• Steroid Treatment

• Has an eating disorder (anorexia nervosa)
• Has Type 1 diabetes
• Has hemolytic anemia
• Smokes
  
• Drinks alcoholic beverages regularly (more than 3 a day)
• Has excessive caffeine intake
• Has a low activity level

Preparation for the study:

• Please consult your physician’s office to schedule DEXA screening.
• Do not take vitamins or calcium supplements for 24 hours prior to the test.