What does the acronym DEXA stand for in medical imaging?

In medical imaging, the acronym DEXA stands for Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry. This technique is primarily used for measuring bone mineral density to assess the risk of osteoporosis and other conditions that can lead to weakened bones.

The term "Dual-Energy" refers to the use of two different energy levels of X-rays that allow for a more accurate assessment of bone density. It differentiates between bone and soft tissue by evaluating how much of the X-ray beam is absorbed by these tissues at the two distinct energy levels. This dual approach enhances the accuracy of the measurements and provides valuable information about not just bone density but also body composition.

Their clear relevance to assessing skeletal health and conditions related to bone density is key to understanding why DEXA is a fundamental tool in both clinical and research settings.