Comparison Of Lumbar 1-4 And Lumbar 2-4 Bone Mineral Density In Dual Energy X-Ray Absorptiometric Results

Objective To analyse the bone mineral density and T-score of lumbar 1-4 and lumbar 2-4 in different aged people through retrospective data of dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) and explore more valuable information for the diagnosis of osteoporosis.Materials and methods With the aid of DXA, the bone mineral density of lumbar(L1-4、 L2-4)、femoral neck and hip bones were measured in 4903 females over 44 years old. Subjects ranged in age from 45 to 94 years with a mean of 60.3±9.4 years.There were 8 groups based upon the stratifications of 5-year age intervals (> 80-year-olds combined as one group). After recording data, the bone mineral density and T-score averages were calculated and their differences analyzed by t-test.Furthermore,we studied the lumbar characteristics of subjects with age. Results In all groups,bone mineral density and T-score of lumbar vertebrae were existed significant differences (P<0.05).What’s more, L1-4 were lower than L2-4 counterparts. With age, bone mineral density and T-score of lumbar showed bone mass decreased before 70 years while hip showed in all groups.The largest degree were declined in 50 to 55 group and there were no obvious differences between L1-4 and L2-4.After 70 years,there were some rebound in lumbar bone mineral density and T-score,expecially L2-4.Conclusions Skeletal sites、spinal degenerative joint diseases(DJD) and abdominal aortic calcification have influenced the lumbar results of DXA measurement. Bone mineral density and T-score of L1-4 are lower than L2-4 counterparts.L2-4 are more likely to be affected by vertebral degenerative joint diseases and abdominal aortic calcification. While evaluating lumbar site, one should consider these differences to avoid an incorrect diagnosis.