Osteoporosis CT

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Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Associate Editor(s)-In-Chief: Cafer Zorkun, M.D., Ph.D. [2], Raviteja Guddeti, M.B.B.S.[3]

Overview

Quantitative computed tomography (QCT) scanning is an alternative to DEXA scan for measuring bone mineral density. It measures BMD as a true volume density in g/cm3, which is not influenced by bone size. It is used to measure bone mineral density of only the spine.

Computed tomography scanning

• It measures the bone mineral density of only the spine and thus aiding in diagnosing spine osteoporosis.
• It is used in identifying fractures.

Advantages

• Measures true volume density.
• Highly sensitive than conventional x-ray

Disadvantages

• Requires higher radiation dose
• Expensive
• Relatively poor reproducibility
• Presence of osteophytes can interfere with the imaging quality

Quantitative CT scan is seldom used now.

Single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) scanning offers better image contrast and more accurate lesion localization.

References

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