Equipment and software used for dual energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA) was developed
for adults. As use of the method grows in pediatrics, understanding technical issues
is important for those performing and interpreting DXA studies in infants, children,
and adolescents. Detection of very low bone mineral density requires alteration of
automated scan techniques. Normal values based on chronologic age have been published.
The Z score becomes the more meaningful statistic as opposed to the T score used in
reporting adult DXA measurement of bone mineral density.
Osteopenia - bone densitometry - dual energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA)
