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What Does This Bone Density Test Result Indicate?
Question: I am a 70 year old female. A recent bone density test stated "the left femoral neck, bone mineral density is 0.0439 g/cm2 with a T-score of -3.7 and a Z-score of -1.9. Can you tell me how severe this is? I have made an appointment with my doctor for 3 weeks from now, but would value your input. Also, what treatment would you suggest? Thank you.
XXXX XXXXXXX
I apolgize. The density number was 0.439
XXXX XXXXXXX
I apolgize. The density number was 0.439
Brief Answer:
The number is very low, consult your orthopedic surgeon.
Detailed Answer:
Hello Ms XXXXXXX
Thank you for posting your health query, I understand your concern.
T-score compares the bone density measured in you, with that of a healthy, 30 year old adult, and negative numbers indicate lower bone density, and since these numbers are expressed as standard deviations, any value less than -1 is considered quite significant and any value less than -2 is considered sever osteoporosis.
Since your value is -3.7 You are at a great risk for sustaining fractures with very minimal trauma or stress.
Z-score is similar, but compares your bone density with that of people of your own age and gender. Any negative number in Z-score is significant.
I hope this answers your concern, please feel free to write back to me if you have additional questions.
Wishing you good health.
Best regards.
The number is very low, consult your orthopedic surgeon.
Detailed Answer:
Hello Ms XXXXXXX
Thank you for posting your health query, I understand your concern.
T-score compares the bone density measured in you, with that of a healthy, 30 year old adult, and negative numbers indicate lower bone density, and since these numbers are expressed as standard deviations, any value less than -1 is considered quite significant and any value less than -2 is considered sever osteoporosis.
Since your value is -3.7 You are at a great risk for sustaining fractures with very minimal trauma or stress.
Z-score is similar, but compares your bone density with that of people of your own age and gender. Any negative number in Z-score is significant.
I hope this answers your concern, please feel free to write back to me if you have additional questions.
Wishing you good health.
Best regards.
Note: For further queries, consult a joint and bone specialist, an Orthopaedic surgeon. Book a Call now.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Answered by
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