title: [Evaluation of vertebral fractures with dual energy absorptiometry: is it an alternative to conventional radiography?].
abstract: A new technique based on bone densitometry is proposed, as a potential alternative to X rays evaluation of vertebral deformities. Compared to conventional X ray, this technique offers a good specificity ranging from 95 to 99%. The variable sensitivity reported (from 0.53 to 0.92%), due to poor detection of higher thoracic vertebrae, hampers the diagnostic value of the technique. Nevertheless, its good negative predictive value may allow its use as a screening tool in a high risk population. Main progress should be performed on the image definition in order to increase the diagnostic sensitivity of the technique.
authors.affiliation: Unité Inserm 403 Hôpital Edouard Herriot Pav F, Service de rhumatologie 5, place d'Arsonval F-69437 Lyon. duboeuf@lyon.inserm.fr
authors.forename: François
authors.initials: F
authors.lastname: Duboeuf
authors.forename: Roland
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Chapurlat
authors.forename: Olivier Marion
authors.initials: OM
authors.lastname: Audibert
authors.forename: Pierre Denis
authors.initials: PD
authors.lastname: Delmas
mesh_terms: D015502:Absorptiometry, Photon; D006801:Humans; D015203:Reproducibility of Results; D016103:Spinal Fractures / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*