Pharmacy Clinical Pearl of the Day: Bone Density and T-score

The lower a person’s T-score, the lower the bone density.

Clinical Pearl of the Day: Bone density and T-score

  • T-score compares bone mass to that of a healthy young adult.
    • A T-score of -1.0 or above is normal bone density.
  • A T-score between -1.0 and -2.5 means you have low bone density or osteopenia.
  • A T-score of -2.5 or below is a diagnosis of osteoporosis.

Explanation:

  • The “T” in T-score represents the number of standard deviations, or units of measurement, your score is above or below the average bone density for a young, healthy adult of your same sex.
  • The lower a person’s T-score, the lower the bone density.
  • DXA (dual energy x-ray absorptiometry) can determine the T score and possible osteoporosis.

Reference

  1. Bone Density Test, Osteoporosis Screening & T-score Interpretation (nof.org)
  2. t score and bone density - Google Search