There are a number of Bone Mineral Density testing systems available that are appropriate for screening for Osteoporosis. In the past, when your physician decided a BMD assessment should be made, you most likely would have been referred to an imaging center for testing with a DXA machine.

Now, with MetriScan, your doctor can perform BMD testing in his or her office. MetriScan estimates relative bone mineral density in the middle phalanges (finger bones) of the hand. A score comparing your BMD to that of young healthy individuals is generated. This score is an aid to the physician in assessing osteoporosis and fracture risk. Studies have shown that measurement of BMD of the phalanges of the hand is an excellent predictor of fracture due to osteoporosis.

Test Scores
Physicians use T-scores to classify osteoporosis. A score of greater than -1 means your BMD is in the normal range. A score between -2.5 and -1 means osteopenia (low BMD, but not osteoporosis). A score of less than -2.5 indicates osteoporosis.