Osteoporosis Pathway
Osteoporosis pathway: what it is, risk factors and bone densitometry (MOC/DXA), with an endocrinology visit and follow-up over time.
In brief
- What it is and why it matters
- Bone densitometry (MOC / DXA)
- The pathway: visit and exam
- When it may help
What osteoporosis is
Osteoporosis is a condition in which the bones lose density and internal structure, and for this reason they become more fragile. It mainly affects women after the menopause and tends to increase with age, though it can involve men too.
The most common fractures involve the wrist, the spine and the hip, and they often follow minor knocks, sometimes almost unnoticed. Because it causes no pain until a bone gives way, it is known as the silent disease. That is exactly why noticing it in time makes a real difference.
Risk factors
Some conditions make it more likely that the bones will weaken. Having one or more does not mean you are ill, but it is a good reason for an assessment:
- Advancing age
- Menopause and the drop in oestrogen
- A very slim build
- Osteoporosis or fractures in the family
- Smoking and heavy alcohol use
- Little physical activity
- A diet low in calcium and vitamin D
- Long-term use of corticosteroids
- Certain hormonal, rheumatological or intestinal conditions
If any of these apply to you, talking about it during a visit is a useful first step.
Bone densitometry (MOC / DXA)
Bone densitometry with the DXA method (in Italy known as MOC) is the reference examination for measuring bone density. It is usually performed on the lumbar spine and the hip, takes a few minutes and is completely painless. It is non-invasive and uses a very low dose of radiation.
At our centre the examination is carried out by the radiographer (TSRM) Dott.ssa Rossella Ferroni, and the result is then read in the light of your clinical history.
The pathway at our centre
Clinical care and examination together, in one place.
The visit
The endocrinologist, Dott. Cristiano Maria Francucci, listens to your history, assesses the risk factors and decides whether and which examinations are needed.
The examination
Bone densitometry (MOC) is performed by Dott.ssa Rossella Ferroni, quickly and comfortably.
Report and monitoring
The results are interpreted together with the clinical picture, to set up prevention, any treatment and follow-up over time.
When bone densitometry may help
There is no single right moment for everyone, but it is worth discussing with your doctor if:
- you are in the menopause, especially with risk factors
- you are over 65
- you have already had a fracture from a minor fall
- you have been taking corticosteroids for some time
- there are cases of osteoporosis in your family
The decision to perform bone densitometry always rests with the doctor, based on your situation.
Take care of your bones
An assessment to understand how they are and what you can do.