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Lab marker

T-score

A bone-density result comparing your bone to that of a healthy young adult.

A bone-density result comparing your bone to that of a healthy young adult.

The T-score from a DEXA scan compares your bone mineral density with that of a healthy young adult of the same sex. A T-score of -2.5 or lower generally indicates osteoporosis.

A T-score between -1.0 and -2.5 falls in the osteopenia range, while a score of -1.0 or above is considered normal.

Related terms

Bone mineral density

A measure of the mineral content of bone, used to assess fracture risk.

DEXA scan

A low-dose X-ray test that measures bone mineral density.

Osteoporosis

A condition of weakened, porous bone that raises the risk of fractures.

Osteopenia

Lower-than-normal bone density that is not yet in the osteoporosis range.

Source

MedlinePlus: Bone Mineral Density Tests

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