Bone density vs bone quality: what's a clinician to do?

Cleve Clin J Med. 2009 Jun;76(6):331-6. doi: 10.3949/ccjm.76a.08041.

Abstract

Studies of the epidemiology of osteoporosis and of drug treatments for it have challenged the concept that denser bone means stronger bone. Bone strength or resistance to fracture is not easily measured by routine densitometry, being a function of both density and quality.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Absorptiometry, Photon / methods
  • Bone Density / drug effects*
  • Bone Density / physiology
  • Bone Density Conservation Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Bone and Bones / metabolism
  • Bone and Bones / physiology*
  • Fractures, Bone / epidemiology
  • Fractures, Bone / etiology
  • Fractures, Bone / prevention & control
  • Humans
  • Osteoporosis / drug therapy*
  • Risk Assessment
  • Risk Factors

Substances

  • Bone Density Conservation Agents