الفهرس 
Aim of the workOnly 14 pages are availabe for public view
 |  | from | 16 |  |  |
| | | from | 16 | | |
Abstract
Osteoporosis is the most common of all metabolic bone disorders. It is characterized by low bone mass and microarchitectural deterioration of bone tissue, with a consequent increase in bone fragility and susceptibility to fractures. Because of the increasing aging of the world population, the number of persons affected by osteoporosis is also in-creasing. Complications related to osteoporosis can create social and economic burdens. For these reasons, the early diagnosis of osteoporosis is crucial. Conventional radiography allows qualitative and semi-quantitative evaluation of osteoporosis, whereas other imaging techniques allow quantification of bone loss (eg, dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry and quantitative computed tomography [CT]), assessment for the presence of fractures (morphometry), and the study of bone properties (ultrasonography). In recent years, new imaging modalities such as micro-CT and high-resolution magnetic resonance imaging have been developed in an attempt to help diagnose osteoporosis in its early stages, thereby reducing social and economic costs and preventing patient suffering. The correct diagnosis of osteoporosis results in better management in terms of prevention and adequate pharmacologic or surgical treatment.
Conclusion and recommendation:
Correct diagnosis of osteoporosis is fundamental for the identification of persons who need treatment and are at risk for complications. Advanced (and often complementary) technologies are being developed in an attempt to help diagnose osteoporosis in its early
Summary and conclusion
100
stages, thereby reducing social and economic costs and preventing patient suffering.
Dual x-ray absorptiometry is currently the state-of-the-art technique to measure bone mineral density and to diagnose osteoporosis according to the World Health Organization guidelines.
The radiologists have several important roles and responsibilities in the imaging of osteoporosis: We need to
(a) Diagnose osteoporosis.
(b) Alert clinicians to increased fracture risk.
(c) Monitor treatment.
(d) Correctly interpret fragility fractures.
In addition we need to ensure that the proper imaging modality is used whenever possible that is, if DXA has limitations, an attempt should be made to use quantitative CT, and if this is not possible we need to indicate the limitations in our report to the referring clinician. Also, we are responsible for quality assurance of quantitative measurements and we should be a driving force in developing new techniques to analyze bone quality. The importance of osteoporosis is increasing in our aging society; fragility fractures may have a devastating impact on the individual and as radiologists we have a critical role in preventing these.