Odd Bone Density Reading

Hi All,

  LTNPost, I know ..   

  I have a question about unusually HIGH bone density that hopefully someone on here can answer.  

  I bought one of the new Weigh****chers bath scales last week, as I wanted a scale that measures and calculates body fat %, hydration %, and bone density %, in addition to just pounds.  I had never taken these specialized measurements before, either as a pre-op or post-op, other than body fat % using one of those hand-held gizmos.

  When I used the scale for the first time, I was shocked to see that my bone density was 8.8%, which was off the given scale to the maximum end, being about 1/3 HIGHER than the normal level for someone of my gender and age (53).      If anything, I expected to be below normal or even off the normal end of range, since I have continued to have high calcium PTH levels (i.e. calcium loss) ever since my surgery 8+ years ago.  Can anyone come up with a theory as to what would cause abnormally high bone density, esp. in a post-op?  Or, are these type of scales not exactly accurate in taking those measurements?      For what it's worth, the scale also measures and calculates my hydration level as being off the given scale to the minimum end, based on my gender and age.  However, I show no actual signs of dehydration (e.g. the skin pinch test on the back of the hands).  Again, maybe these scales aren't all they're cracked up to be?           

I tend to think the measurements aren't necessarily all that accurate. My scale's body fat % seems inaccurate but it is consistent. I just use that measurement as a trend instead of getting too hung up on the specific %. Perhaps your scale is similar?

I've heard of scales giving body fat percentages -- which they aren't very good at. But I've never heard of a scale measuring bone density. I don't see how that's possible.

I'm with Grim.  I cannot imagine how a scale could possibly calculate bone density.  It "calculates" (estimates would be a more accurate term) your body fat and hydration levels via impedance (a small electrical signal that travels at different rates through fat than organs/muscles/etc.... The same thing the hand held unit use... and those aren't especially accurate, either, but at least get you in the right ballpark).

I wouldn't give any credence to a bone density report by a scale for anyone, but especially not for you since you have had high PTH levels. Get a DEXA scan and be sure what your bone density is.  

Lora