A bone density test (DEXA scan) does not diagnose cancer, but it can detect unusual bone loss that may require further testing. Learn how DEXA scans assess bone health and when additional tests may be needed.
A bone density test (DEXA scan) is designed to measure bone mineral density (BMD) and assess the risk of osteoporosis and fractures. However, it does not diagnose cancer. While a DEXA scan may detect abnormal bone loss or changes in bone structure, confirming cancer requires additional imaging and medical tests.
📌 A DEXA scan does NOT diagnose cancer, but it may reveal signs that require further investigation.
✔️ Unusual Bone Loss or Weakness – Could indicate bone metastases (cancer that has spread to the bone) but could also be osteoporosis or another condition.
✔️ Asymmetrical Bone Density Changes – One side of the body losing bone faster than the other may indicate an underlying disease.
✔️ Severe, Rapid Bone Loss – Some cancers, like multiple myeloma, can cause rapid bone deterioration.
✔️ Fractures in Unexpected Areas – Spontaneous fractures or weakened bones could signal underlying pathology.
👉 Example: If a DEXA scan shows sudden, unexplained bone loss, a doctor may order additional tests, such as X-rays, CT scans, MRIs, or blood work, to rule out cancer.
Certain cancers directly impact bone health by either weakening bone structure or spreading (metastasizing) to the bones.
✔️ Multiple Myeloma – Affects the bone marrow, leading to bone thinning & fractures.
✔️ Breast Cancer (Advanced Stages) – Can spread to the bones, reducing bone density.
✔️ Prostate Cancer (Advanced Stages) – May cause bone metastases, weakening bones.
✔️ Lung Cancer (Advanced Stages) – Can spread to bones, affecting structure & strength.
✔️ Leukemia & Lymphoma – Can affect bone marrow, leading to weakened bones.
📌 Key Insight: If a patient has unexplained bone loss or fractures with no clear cause, doctors may investigate whether cancer or another medical condition is contributing.
Since DEXA scans do not diagnose cancer, doctors use other tests to determine the cause of bone loss.
✔️ X-rays & MRI Scans – Detect bone lesions or tumors.
✔️ CT or PET Scans – Identify cancer spread (metastases) in bones.
✔️ Blood Tests (Calcium, Alkaline Phosphatase, Tumor Markers) – Helps detect cancer activity in bones.
✔️ Bone Biopsy – Confirms if cancer cells are present in bone tissue.
👉 Example: If a person with breast cancer has worsening bone loss on a DEXA scan, a doctor may order a bone scan or PET scan to check for metastases.
📌 A DEXA scan is recommended for:
✔️ People over 50 at risk for osteoporosis.
✔️ Postmenopausal women or men with low testosterone.
✔️ Patients on long-term steroid use (which weakens bones).
✔️ Individuals with a history of fractures or bone disorders.
✔️ Cancer patients on bone-affecting treatments (e.g., chemotherapy, hormone therapy).
🚀 Key Takeaway: If you have cancer risk factors and experience **bone pain, fractures, or unusual bone loss,**discuss additional testing with your doctor.
✔️ A DEXA scan does NOT diagnose cancer, but it can detect abnormal bone loss that may need further evaluation.
✔️ Severe or unexplained bone loss should be investigated with X-rays, MRIs, or blood tests.
✔️ If you are at risk for osteoporosis or cancer-related bone loss, a DEXA scan is essential for monitoring bone health.
🚀 Want to track your bone health? A DEXA scan is the best tool to measure bone density and identify early bone loss before fractures occur.
If you’re concerned about bone density loss or want to monitor your bone health, a DEXA scan at KALOS provides the most accurate assessment of bone strength and fracture risk.
📍 Schedule your DEXA scan today at KALOS—because real data leads to better results.
Bay Area residents trust KALOS to deliver results. We proudly serve the entire Bay Area including the following locations:
