QCT or DXA Exam

Nearly 2 million bone ruptures are testified every year as a consequence of osteoporosis. It has become a serious health threat that requires attention. A bone density test is used by doctors to evaluate the condition of bones in your body. It’s commonly recommended to men and women 50 and older. In some cases, doctors recommend the test when you have a family history of osteoporosis.

Osteoporosis is one of the most common communities well-being issues. The bone mass density is tested to diagnose it. The results also help in examining the risk of fracture and other issues. Currently, DEXA Exam is identified as the most accurate test for osteoporosis diagnosis. On the other hand, QCT is beneficial when BMD is changing.

Usually, we forget how much we rely on our bones. If you ever had a fracture, you must have realized the worth. It is better that we don’t take them for granted. It’s a living tissue that owns the capability to break down and restore.

What’s the Difference between QCT and DXA?

The World Health Organization has proposed guidelines that allow health practitioners to examine and interpret bone mineral density. Most importantly you must know that all bone density tests work in similar ways. Both DXA and QCT use x-rays.

To understand the difference between QCT and DXA, it is important to understand each method individually. DEXA Exam is the dual-energy x-ray Absorptiometry. It is considered the standard for testing osteoporosis. It’s a go-to exam, simple, and just requires you to change into scrubs.

The DEXA exam takes approximately 5 to 10 minutes. The patient is requested to lie on their back. The scanner arms move around your body and take measurements of the bone mineral density. If you have hardware implanted in your back or hips, this test is not recommended.

The QCT Exam is the abbreviation for Quantitative Computed Tomography. It delivers a three-dimensional realistic look at the bones. The test is beneficial in detecting bone density issues at an earlier stage. It is the same procedure and offers reliable results for patients who have obesity, scoliosis, aortic calcification, and arthritis.

QCT Exam is suggested for people who are in danger of low bone mass. It also helps in monitoring patients being treated for osteoporosis or osteopenia. The overall DEXA bone scan provides high-quality results and involves safe techniques and strict protocols.

Comparatively, QCT makes the patient exposed to high radiation. In this case, you might also find a higher precision error. 

Who Needs a Bone Density Scan?

To learn about the need for a bone density scan, it is crucial to know about osteoporosis. It’s an illness as a result of low bone mass. The word osteoporosis is derived from porous bone. It is painful. The global problem is being explored around the world. New techniques and tests have emerged to diagnose the issue.

The test helps in evaluating the overall strength or fragility of the bones. Through this, the risk of fractures and broken bones can be known. Every 1 in 3 women and 1 in 5 men over the age of 50 are dealing with this issue. It can be prevented by a healthy diet, exercise, and routine check-ups.

DXA Exam

DEXA Exam is a dual X-ray absorptiometry. It permits quantifying bone density and body alignment. The test results help the doctors in identifying the overall proportion of body fat, bone mass, and lean mass.

DEXA Exam is a quick and stress-free test. The patient does not need to be concerned about the pre-measures. Also, the extent of radiation that a body is wide-open to is very minor. The DEXA scan of body fat helps in determining muscle distribution and body fat. The doctors can identify the fat around the organs to assess the overall risk of chronic illnesses.

DEXA Exam is also beneficial in monitoring and tracking the impact of treatment. If a patient is getting treated for osteoporosis, the bone density test can help in checking if the medicines are beneficial or not. If there is a risk for fractures or any other related issue, the test will help in identifying.

If you are going for your DEXA Exam, stay calm. Eat normally. The doctor will recommend not take your calcium and vitamin supplements at least 24 hours before your exam.

QCT Exam

QCT measures the volumetric bone mass density. It aids in differentiating between the bones and offers a sensitive and accurate measure of changes. A bone density test also helps in finding if your bones are getting thin or weak. If there’s any possibility of fracture or bone break, precautions can be taken accordingly.

Originally, QCT was used to examine the mineral density in bones. Now, the method uses whole-body CT scanners. The assessment of compartments is carried out and it also provides an estimate of bone strength. The material properties and geometry can be viewed from the scans. It helps in accurately quantifying the properties. Using this, the health practitioners provide required diagnoses and treatments.

Helping to Fight Bone Density Loss

People need to understand that anyone can face osteoporosis. Yes, it’s common among older women and men. The changes increase as you age. If you are aware of the condition or have any family member facing this problem, you can consult a doctor. DEXA scan can help in confirming the case.

DEXA exam and QCT scan are beneficial to bone density scans. These are used to examine the bones in the forearm, hip, and spine. The tests take less than 15 minutes. The results can be evaluated by the doctors. The reports include the T score and Z score.

T score is beneficial in comparing your bone density with a healthy adult of the same gender. It helps in considering if the bone density is normal, below normal, or not in a good state. On the other hand, the Z score aids in comparing your bone mass with other people of the same size, gender, and age.

The overall DEXA exam and QCT test results help the doctors in recommending ways to fight bone density loss. They can provide the right course of action that can be followed to deal with the problems faced by individuals.

Final Thoughts

If a person has gone through a DEXA exam or QCT, it will be easier to confirm if there is any loss of bone density. It can help in taking preventive measures. In such cases, health practitioners focus on counteracting osteoporosis to stay ahead of it. Mostly, calcium and vitamin supplements are recommended to boost bone density.

Along with this, it is critical that patients bring relevant changes in their lifestyles. It can facilitate coping with health issues. The DEXA bone density test is commonly recommended by doctors. It does not require any preliminary special preparation. It’s quick and non-invasive. It is also identified as a typical method for detecting osteoporosis. 

The QCR and DEXA exam can help you in protecting your bones. These tests will help you in understanding the condition of your bones. You can consult a doctor and plan your treatment accordingly