& x20;Which of the following is the diagnostic test for osteoporosis? - AIIMS M.Sc. Nsg Entrance exam-2026

AIIMS M.Sc. Nsg Entrance exam-2026

Medical & Surgical Nursing

Easy

Appeared in: AIIMS M.Sc. Nsg Entrance exam-2026

Explanation

Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) is the gold standard and preferred method for diagnosing osteoporosis.
It is a non-invasive imaging test that measures bone mineral density (BMD), a primary determinant of bone strength and fracture risk.
The results are given as a T-score, which compares the patient's BMD to that of a healthy young adult, allowing for a standardized diagnosis.
A T-score of -2.5 or lower at the lumbar spine, femoral neck, or total hip confirms a diagnosis of osteoporosis.

Option A: Serum calcium levels are typically normal in primary osteoporosis because the body maintains blood calcium homeostasis by resorbing calcium from the bones. Thus, it is not a reliable diagnostic indicator.
Option C: Standard X-rays are insensitive for diagnosing early osteoporosis. Significant bone loss (30-40%) must occur before it is visible on a conventional X-ray.
Option D: A bone biopsy is an invasive procedure that is not used for routine diagnosis of osteoporosis due to its cost, complexity, and associated risks.

Visual 1: Diagram - An illustration showing a patient undergoing a DEXA scan, highlighting the low-dose X-ray beams targeting the hip and spine.
Visual 2: Chart - A color-coded chart illustrating the T-score spectrum from normal bone density (green), to osteopenia (yellow), to osteoporosis (red).

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Diagnosis of Osteoporosis as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Nurses play a crucial role in educating patients about osteoporosis screening. They must explain that a DEXA scan is a simple, painless, and quick procedure, similar to a standard X-ray but with much less radiation.
Early diagnosis through DEXA scanning allows for timely intervention with lifestyle changes (e.g., diet, weight-bearing exercise) and pharmacotherapy, which can significantly reduce the risk of debilitating fragility fractures.
Understanding the results helps nurses reinforce the importance of fall prevention strategies for patients diagnosed with osteopenia or osteoporosis.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the keywords in the question: "diagnostic test" and "osteoporosis". This signals that the question is asking for the standard, most definitive method used to diagnose this specific condition.
This is a factual recall question. Access your knowledge base about common diagnostic procedures for metabolic bone diseases.
Evaluate each option's role in bone health assessment.
Recall that a DEXA scan is specifically designed to measure bone mineral density, which is the defining characteristic of osteoporosis.
Eliminate the other options by considering their limitations: serum calcium is often normal, standard X-rays are not sensitive enough for early detection, and a bone biopsy is too invasive for routine screening.
Conclude that the DEXA scan is the most appropriate and widely accepted diagnostic tool for osteoporosis.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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