Radiologic Technologist Blog
Radiologic technologists, specifically DXA operators, must understand DXA scan analysis and some of the algorithms used in bone densitometry. This article offers greater insight into what goes on behind the scenes in a DXA machine. There are also some useful tips to make your scanning more accurate.
Inherited disorders of the bones are present since the time of birth. However, certain skeletal conditions are acquired later in life. A common type of acquired disorder is a bone tumor. Bone tumors radiology is an important diagnostic method to identify malignancies of the skeleton. X-ray technologists may come across patients with bone tumors when they present to the radiology department for imaging.
The human skeleton can be affected by a number of developmental disorders and genetic abnormalities. One of the most common developmental disorders of the skeleton is a spectrum of inherited conditions called osteogenesis imperfecta (OI) or brittle bone disease. Individuals with this disorder have fragile bones that are prone to fractures. There are various osteogenesis imperfecta types that result from mutations or genetic defects.
X-ray technologists often encounter patients with OI when they present for radiographic imaging of fractures. However, it can be difficult to tell the difference between OI (especially the milder osteogenesis imperfecta types) and non-accidental injuries. Let’s take a look at the causes, types, and symptoms of this condition, the role of DXA in diagnosis, and how to tell the difference between OI and abuse.
A person’s bone health is influenced by both genetic and environmental factors. For a person to have healthy bones nutrition, hormones, and genetics all play a role. Genes determine some elements of bone health, such as the overall size and shape of the person’s skeleton. Genes are non-modifiable factors. Any errors in genes or their signals can lead to congenital defects.
DXA is a noninvasive modality used to measure bone density. It is also known as bone density scanning, bone densitometry, and BMD testing. This overview of DXA scanning in clinical practice will allow DXA operators and other radiologic technologists to review and refresh their knowledge about this imaging modality.
There are three calcium regulating hormones in humans that play a critical role in regulating the calcium level in the body and maintaining healthy bones. These hormones are parathyroid hormone, calcitriol, and calcitonin. Parathyroid hormone stimulates bone formation and bone resorption and maintains the level of calcium in the body. Calcitriol, which is produced from vitamin D, stimulates the intestines to absorb sufficient amounts of calcium and phosphorus and also has a direct effect on bones. Calcitonin is responsible for inhibiting the breakdown of bones and protecting the body against abnormally high calcium levels.