Dexa Scan Results

Lee, DesertDoll is correct. The report does specify Z and T scores and compares them to the WHO standard. It also states at the end, whether the report is normal or abnormal. All of my scores were in the positive range, with one being -1.something.

When you have your next one, in a year, it would be interesting to compare the numbers, which the examiner will do.

 My medical group has my PCP send me a note and then the test results get posted. You really need to see the test results because it's just like vitamins. You may be 'in range' and that's all your PCP cares about but you may be at the low end or trending down or just have high standards than they do. Here are my results:

Indication: Baseline bone densitometry. Risk factors for osteoporosis. 

Comparison: None. 

Technique: The patient’s lumbar spine and bilateral hips were scanned using a Lunar Prodigy densitometer. 

Report:                   BMD      T SCORE        Z SCORE

L Spine (L1-L4)        1.188         0.0              1.0 

Femoral Neck Mean  0.939        -0.7              0.5 

Total Hip Mean         1.009         0.0              0.9 

There is a gentle scoliosis of the spine concave to the right. 

IMPRESSION: Composite bone densitometry showing parameters indicative of normal bone density.

The WHO definition of osteopenia is a T score of between negative1.0 and negative 2.5 while osteoporosis is a T score of less than negative 2.5.

So my PCP says "Normal" and I say "okay, but could be better especially in the neck area." I got a lot better about taking my calcium after seeing this result, in fact.

femoral neck is part of your hip, not your actually neck.  Many of us have a much lower number in that area, it is a much thinner part of the hip bone.

Yeah, but the score isn't absolute but comparative so mine is below average even compared to normal which is already thin. It's not enough below to be called osteopenia but it's pretty close. Yet, if I just had my "your DEXA scan is normal" note from my PCP, I never would have realized that.

I would make sure you get a copy of the report.  You need to see your T scope, Z score and all the in between numbers.  Just saying normal, doesn't say much.  There is a huge range of normal.  Are you high normal, low normal or what.  LIke with our labs, get a copy and post as much info on here as possible and if you can scan it on here that would be best.

I will definitely request a copy of the results!  :)