A 3‑site DEXA scan is a dual‑energy X‑ray absorptiometry test that measures bone mineral density at three locations—typically the lumbar spine, hip (femoral neck) and forearm. It’s quick, painless and uses very low radiation. Results give T‑scores/Z‑scores to diagnose osteoporosis, estimate fracture risk and monitor treatment, especially when spine or hip measurements may be unreliable.

DEXA (DXA) measures bone mineral density primarily at the lumbar spine and proximal femur (hip). Peripheral scans of the forearm or a whole‑body scan may be used in specific situations (children, obesity, or fracture‑risk assessment). The test is done in the imaging department with the patient lying on a padded table while a low‑dose X‑ray passes over the scanned sites.

DEXA is a three-compartment body-composition method separating bone mineral content, lean soft tissue, and fat mass. It gives accurate regional bone-density and body-composition estimates but assumes constant lean-tissue hydration. Accuracy can be reduced in edema, altered hydration, extreme obesity, or with metal implants, so results should be interpreted considering clinical context and measurement limitations.

DXA measures three primary components for body composition: bone mineral content/density, fat mass (including regional fat distribution), and lean soft tissue (muscle) mass. It provides whole‑body and regional values (arms, legs, trunk) and can also estimate abdominal/visceral fat, allowing simultaneous assessment of bone health and body composition.

Costs vary by country and setting. In the United States a DEXA scan typically costs about $100–300 out‑of‑pocket (often covered by Medicare or private insurance when indicated). In the UK it’s free on the NHS when clinically needed; private clinics charge roughly £50–£150. In India prices range about ₹800–3,500 depending on city and facility.

A three-stage bone scan is a nuclear medicine test using a technetium-99m bone tracer and gamma camera to evaluate blood flow, soft tissues, and bone metabolism. Stage 1 (flow) images immediately after injection assess perfusion; stage 2 (blood-pool) images minutes later show soft-tissue inflammation; stage 3 (delayed) images hours later show tracer uptake in bone. It detects infection, fractures, tumors, and metabolic bone disease.