Which anatomical sites are commonly evaluated during a DXA scan?

• A. The wrist, ribs, and elbow
• B. The hip, lumbar spine, and sometimes the forearm
• C. The knee, shoulder, and pelvis
• D. The ankle, foot, and skull

Answer: (B)

The evaluation of the hip, lumbar spine, and sometimes the forearm during a DXA (Dual-energy X-ray Absorptiometry) scan is widely accepted because these sites are critical when assessing bone mineral density (BMD) and diagnosing conditions like osteoporosis.

The hip and lumbar spine are recognized as the primary sites for BMD measurement due to their significant contribution to fracture risk, particularly in postmenopausal women and the elderly population. The hip is essential because it supports the body's weight and is frequently affected by osteoporotic fractures. The lumbar spine is also vital, as it is a common site for vertebral fractures and can indicate overall spine health.

Additionally, the forearm may be included in assessments if there are specific clinical indications or if the hip and spine cannot be assessed for any reason. This flexibility allows for a comprehensive evaluation of an individual’s bone health.

The other options mention anatomical sites that are not commonly used for routine DXA assessments. Sites like the wrist, ribs, knee, and skull provide less reliable data for predicting fracture risk and are typically not included in standard practice because they do not correlate as strongly with overall skeletal health or osteoporosis-related fractures as the hip and lumbar spine do.