Lunar Densitometry

Defining Osteoporosis by BMD

Clinical Guidelines

Defining Osteoporosis by BMD

The World Health Organization (WHO) has established the following definitions based on bone density measurement at any skeletal site in white women:

Normal: T-Score above -1 (BMD is within 1 SD of a "young normal" adult)
Osteopenia: T-score between -1 and -2.5 (BMD is between 1 and 2.5 SD below that of a "young normal" adult)
Osteoporosis: T-score at or below -2.5 (BMD is 2.5 SD or more below that of a “young normal” adult. Women in this group with one or more fractures are deemed to have severe or "established" osteoporosis.)

Although these definitions are necessary to establish the prevalence of osteoporosis, they should not be used as the sole determinant of treatment decisions.

Who should have a bone density test?

Who should have a bone density test?

The US National Osteoporosis Foundation (NOF) is a leading source of information about osteoporosis and bone measurement. The NOF recommends women have a bone density test if they are:


  • Over 65 years old
  • Postmenopausal with at least one risk factor besides menopause or with a fracture
  • Considering osteoporisis theraphy
  • On prolonged hormone replacement therapy




The NOF recommends considering treatment if:

  • T-score is < -1.5 with risk factors
  • T-score is < -2 with no risk factors
  • Postmenopausal with a fracture




GE Lunar bone densitometers continue to set new landmarks in clinical value with high-performance applications, advanced clinical utility, and the unique enCORE™ software platform.