QuestionSBA
QuestionChoice
Serum alkaline phosphatase is normal in osteoporosis, and therefore cannot be used for diagnosis. If elevated, it could indicate other conditions such as osteomalacia or Paget's Disease of the Bone.
10003848
c
Serum alkaline phosphatase
QuestionChoice
DEXA scans are the gold standard investigation to measure bone density. A T-score of ≤-2.5 indicates osteoporosis.
10003846
a
DEXA scan
QuestionChoice
An X-ray may reveal osteopenia and/or fractures but does not diagnose osteoporosis. X-rays can be used to justify the need for DEXA scans when osteopenia is detected coincidentally.
10003849
d
Wrist x-ray
QuestionChoice
Serum calcium levels are normal in osteoporosis. Hypocalcaemia could indicate osteomalacia, whilst hypercalcaemia could indicate hyperparathyroidism or malignancy.
10003850
e
Serum calcium
QuestionChoice
An MRI of the spine has no role in the diagnosis of osteoporosis. The investigation of choice is a DEXA scan.
10003847
b
MRI spine
Concept
Chapter
2693
4208
Osteoporosis
Topic
154
Musculoskeletal physiology and disease
13316
An 89-year-old female is admitted to the orthopaedic ward after falling from standing height and fracturing her wrist.

Which of the following investigations is best for diagnosing osteoporosis?
a