Bone Mineral Density (BMD) by Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry (DXA) with Whole-Blood Sample
This test measures the density of minerals in your bones using a low-dose X-ray scan. It helps assess your risk of osteoporosis or other bone-related conditions.
["DXA scans help determine bone health and identify risks for fractures over time."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 77454-7
- Short code
- Deprecated Hind+Mid ft DXA T-score BMD
- Synonyms
- Deprecated Hind+Mid ft DXA T-score BMD
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- xr-dxa
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What This Test Measures
The test uses a specialized X-ray machine to create detailed images of your bones, specifically focusing on areas like the spine, hips, and wrists. It measures the amount of bone mineral content relative to bone volume, which reflects overall bone strength. This is not a blood test but involves a quick, painless scan.
Why It’s Done
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have a higher risk of osteoporosis, have symptoms like bone pain or fractures, or are part of a screening program for bone health. It’s also used to monitor treatment effectiveness for conditions affecting bone density.
Sample Collection and Process
No blood is drawn for this test. Instead, you’ll lie on a table while the machine takes images of your bones. The process is quick and doesn’t require fasting or special preparation beyond wearing a gown and removing jewelry.
What to Expect After the Test
After the scan, you’ll be able to return to your normal activities immediately. Results are typically reviewed by a radiologist or bone density specialist, who will discuss findings with your doctor to determine next steps.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
DXA BMD Scan
Frequently asked questions
Your bone density results help identify whether your bones are strong enough to prevent fractures or if interventions (like medication or lifestyle changes) are needed to improve bone health. Low bone density can indicate osteoporosis, a condition where bones become weak and brittle.
A low bone density result may signal an increased risk of fractures, especially in older adults or those with risk factors like a family history of osteoporosis, long-term steroid use, or poor nutrition. Your doctor will discuss personalized recommendations, such as dietary changes, exercise, or medications, based on your results.
The frequency depends on your health status. Typically, healthy adults may get a baseline scan around age 65 or earlier if they have risk factors. Follow-up scans are often recommended every 2 years for those at higher risk or under treatment.
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy