Does a Bone Density Test Show Arthritis?
In short, a bone density test does not show arthritis. Nevertheless, your doctor would suggest this procedure for rheumatoid arthritis as those with arthritis tend to have low mineral density in their bones as well. It is known that the risk of osteoporosis is higher in people with rheumatoid arthritis due to:
– Bone loss from the physiology in rheumatoid arthritis.
– Inactivity from the loss of joint function and pain linked to the disease.
– Treatment using glucocorticoid medications, which would lead to bone loss. [3]
What Do Results of a Bone Density Test Show?
The results of a bone density test usually contain a T-score, a comparison of bone density with a healthy individual. A + range indicates a higher than average density, while A – range indicates a lower than average density. This means the higher the score, the higher the bone density. In general, the scoring system can be interpreted as follows:
– A score of -2.5 or lower: osteoporosis.
– A score between -1 and -2.5: low bone density.
– A score between -1 and +1: normal. [4]
