Bone mineral density
Bone Mineral Density
Bone mineral density (BMD) is the amount of bone mineral in bone tissue. The concept is of significance in osteoporosis and other metabolic bone diseases.
Pronunciation
Bone Mineral Density: /boʊn ˈmɪnərəl dɛnsɪti/
Etymology
The term "Bone Mineral Density" is derived from the Latin words 'os' meaning bone, 'mineralis' meaning mineral, and 'densitas' meaning density.
Definition
Bone mineral density (BMD) is a measure of the amount of minerals, specifically calcium, contained in certain volume of bone. BMD is used in clinical medicine as an indirect indicator of osteoporosis and fracture risk.
Measurement
BMD is most commonly measured by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA, also written as DXA). Other methods such as ultrasound, quantitative computed tomography (QCT), or single photon absorptiometry (SPA) can also be used.
Related Terms
- Osteoporosis: A condition characterized by a decrease in the density of bone, decreasing its strength and resulting in fragile bones.
- Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry: A means of measuring bone mineral density (BMD). Two X-ray beams with different energy levels are aimed at the patient's bones, and BMD is calculated from the absorption of each beam by the bone.
- Calcium: A mineral found in many foods. The body needs calcium to maintain strong bones and to carry out many important functions.
- Fracture: A break in a bone. If the bone is broken, it is called a fracture.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Bone mineral density
- Wikipedia's article - Bone mineral density
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