DEXA Scan

DEXA stands for dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. The scanner passes two X-ray energy levels through the body and uses their different absorption patterns to distinguish mineralized bone from soft tissue. Depending on the scan type, the report can focus on selected skeletal regions or provide whole-body estimates of lean mass, fat mass, and bone mineral content.

Bone and body-composition reports answer different questions. A bone-density report may include absolute density and standardized scores, while a whole-body report may show regional composition and estimates of visceral adipose tissue. Positioning, machine calibration, analysis software, recent contrast imaging, and changes in hydration can affect comparisons.

A single result is a measurement at one time. Meaningful follow-up depends on comparable equipment, positioning, scan region, and analysis methods. DEXA does not describe muscle quality, fitness, blood biomarkers, or the full distribution of fat within every organ, so its boundaries should remain visible when the report is discussed.

Metal, movement, unusual positioning, and body size relative to the scan field can create artefacts or constrain analysis. A technologist's image-quality notes are therefore part of the report. The numerical table should not be separated from those acquisition details.

Scan analysis depends on correctly defining anatomical regions of interest. The software places boundaries around areas such as the hips, spine, limbs, or trunk, and a reviewer may adjust them when positioning or anatomy makes the automatic placement inaccurate.

Related Previvo services: DEXA Scan Winnipeg | Previvo.