DXAbilleder

DXAbilleder is a term used to describe the digital X-ray images produced by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) devices. These images are used primarily for assessing bone mineral density (BMD) and body composition in clinical practice and research. DXA uses two X-ray beams at different energy levels to estimate bone density by comparing attenuation through bone and surrounding soft tissue within a scan region, typically the lumbar spine, hip, or forearm. The resulting images may be grayscale representations of mineral density and, in many systems, color-coded maps that highlight regional BMD variations. Quantitative measurements derived from the scan, such as T-scores and Z-scores, underpin osteoporosis diagnosis and fracture risk assessment and guide treatment decisions.

DXAbilleder images are usually stored in DICOM format and linked with patient demographics, exam identifiers, site scanned, and scan parameters. They are integrated into Picture Archiving and Communication Systems (PACS) and electronic health records, enabling longitudinal monitoring of bone health and response to therapy.

Limitations of DXA imaging include its projectional 2D nature, which provides limited anatomical detail compared with CT or MRI; accuracy can be affected by patient positioning, degenerative changes, and artifacts; device calibration and regional analysis methods may vary across manufacturers.

In clinical practice, DXAbilleder play a central role in osteoporosis screening, particularly for postmenopausal women and other at-risk groups, and in monitoring the effectiveness of anti-osteoporosis treatments. See also dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry, bone mineral density, osteoporosis, DICOM, PACS.