T-Score or Z-Score: What Is Your Bone Density Being Compared With?
Menopause & HormonesArticleRead the two comparisons without treating the report as a complete care plan.
At your results visit, ask which comparison the clinician is using and why it fits your stage of life.
Compare the report labels
| Detail | T-score | Z-score |
|---|---|---|
| Reference comparison | Young-adult bone density | Bone density of a matched-age reference population |
| Usual reporting context for women | After menopause | Before menopause |
| A finding to discuss | A score of −2.5 or lower at an appropriate DXA site can diagnose osteoporosis after menopause | A score of −2.0 or lower is described as below the expected range for age |
The two labels describe different comparisons. Have the clinician explain the result from each measured site and how the applicable diagnostic criteria are being used.12
Give the clinician the rest of the history
Bring details of previous fractures, medicines, medical conditions, family history and menstrual history. These contribute to the assessment along with the scan. Bone density testing can help diagnose osteoporosis, predict fracture risk and monitor treatment.3
Write three questions beside the report: “What does this change in my care?” “Do we need to assess other causes of low density?” and “When should this be reviewed?” Ask for the answers in your visit notes.
The care plan may include nutrition, exercise, fall prevention or medicines, depending on your assessment. Ask which recommendations apply to you and whom to contact if you need help following them.3
My Body Changed. Now What? lists a Change Map and Visit Brief. They can organize the body changes, medicines and questions you want to bring to a menopause-care appointment. See the book.
This article is for general educational purposes only and is not medical advice. It isn't a substitute for diagnosis or treatment from a qualified healthcare professional who knows your health history. Please don't ignore professional advice or delay getting care because of something you read here. If you think you may be having a medical emergency, call 911 or your local emergency number right away. Girl Playbook does not endorse any specific product, test, or provider.
Girl Playbook sells this book. It provides education and worksheets, not individualized medical care.
Sources
The research behind this article, in the order it’s cited. How we source our articles.
- National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin DiseasesBone Mineral Density Tests: What the Numbers Mean (opens in a new tab)ab
- International Society for Clinical DensitometryOfficial Adult Positions 2023 (opens in a new tab)ab
- National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin DiseasesOsteoporosis: Diagnosis, Treatment, and Steps to Take (opens in a new tab)ab
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