title: [Bone densitometry: is it a real clinical contribution?].
abstract: Bone absorptiometry has allowed a real progression in the study of osteoporosis. Radiological dual-photon absorptiometry measures bone density with a precision near to 1%, which renders it useful for clinical use. Osteoporosis is specially prevalent among women older than 50 years. Since the disease is usually silent and there is not treatment to increase bone mass, its early detection is mandatory. The National Osteoporosis Foundation has specified the indications for bone absorptiometry. Although the routine measurement in postmenopausal women is not recommended, the author estimates that this guidance will change, due to the high prevalence of asymptomatic osteopenia in these women.
authors.affiliation: Departamento de Endocrinología, Metabolismo y Nutrición, Hospital Clínico Universidad Católica, Santiago de Chile.
authors.forename: E
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: Arteaga
mesh_terms: D015502:Absorptiometry, Photon / Q000379:methods; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D015519:Bone Density; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010024:Osteoporosis / Q000175:diagnosis*
vernacular_title: Densitometría ósea. Es un aporte real a la clínica?