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Bone density T-score

Bone and calcium · also printed as T-score, T score, DEXA T-score, DXA T-score, Bone density T-score

Typical UK adult range-1.0 SD and above

Above -1.0 is the usual band; -1.0 to -2.5 is labelled osteopenia and below -2.5 osteoporosis by the scan report.

What this test measures

A DEXA scan measures bone density. The T-score compares it with the average for a healthy young adult of the same sex; each point below zero is one standard deviation lower.

Why doctors request it

Requested to assess bone thinning after fractures, in the menopause, on long-term steroids and in some other conditions.

What commonly pushes it up

There is no problem with a high value
Spinal arthritis or a previous vertebral fracture can falsely raise the spine value

What commonly pushes it down

Increasing age
The menopause
Steroid medicines as a class
Low body weight, smoking and heavy alcohol
Some hormone and gut conditions

Everyday reasons for a value outside the range

Hip and spine scores can differ
Arthritis in the spine makes the spine value read higher than the bone really is

About the sample

Reported separately for hip and spine; the lowest value is usually the one quoted.

Written by a UK consultant physician. Typical UK adult reference ranges; your laboratory's own printed range takes precedence.

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This is an educational summary of results you uploaded. It is not medical advice, a diagnosis or a treatment plan, and it does not replace the doctor who requested the test. If you are worried, or a result is marked outside range, discuss it with your doctor. Written and reviewed by a UK consultant physician. Reference ranges vary between laboratories.