can a dexa scan show cancer

Daniel Parker

2 min read

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18-03-2025

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A DEXA (dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry) scan is primarily used to measure bone density. It's a crucial tool for diagnosing osteoporosis and assessing fracture risk. However, a common question arises: can a DEXA scan also detect cancer? The short answer is: not directly, but it can sometimes reveal signs that *suggest* further investigation is needed.

Understanding DEXA Scans

DEXA scans use low-dose X-rays to create detailed images of bone density. This allows doctors to identify areas of low bone mass, a key indicator of osteoporosis. The scan itself is painless and relatively quick.

The images produced during a DEXA scan are analyzed by a technician or radiologist. They look for bone density levels, comparing them to age and sex-matched norms. This helps determine if someone is at risk of fractures.

How DEXA Scans *Might* Indicate Cancer

While not designed for cancer detection, a DEXA scan can sometimes incidentally reveal abnormalities that warrant further investigation. These might include:

• Unexpected bone lesions: The scan might show unusual areas of bone destruction or increased bone density. These could be indicative of various conditions, including cancer that has metastasized (spread) to the bones. Metastatic bone disease is frequently seen in cancers like breast, lung, prostate, and multiple myeloma.
• Unexplained fractures: If a DEXA scan reveals fractures that are not easily explained by a fall or other trauma, further investigation might be necessary to rule out an underlying condition like cancer.
• Soft tissue abnormalities (rare): Although primarily focused on bone, a DEXA scan might incidentally show soft tissue abnormalities that could warrant further imaging or tests. This is uncommon but possible.

DEXA Scans are Not a Cancer Screening Tool

It's crucial to understand that a DEXA scan is **not** a screening test for cancer. It's not designed to detect tumors or other cancerous growths. Any abnormalities observed on a DEXA scan require additional imaging and tests, such as:

• CT scans or MRI scans: These provide higher resolution images of bones and soft tissues, which are more suitable for detecting and characterizing lesions.
• Bone biopsy: A small sample of bone tissue might be taken for microscopic examination if a lesion is suspected to be cancerous.
• Blood tests: These can help to assess overall health and screen for specific markers related to various cancers.

When to Discuss Concerns with Your Doctor

If you have concerns about cancer risk or have experienced unexplained fractures, you should discuss these issues with your doctor. They can help assess your risk factors and determine if additional testing is needed. A DEXA scan, while not a cancer detection tool, can sometimes indirectly trigger further investigations that lead to early cancer diagnosis in some cases.

Conclusion

A DEXA scan is a valuable tool for assessing bone health, primarily for detecting osteoporosis. While it cannot directly detect cancer, abnormalities found on a DEXA scan can sometimes prompt further investigation, potentially leading to an earlier diagnosis of metastatic bone disease. However, it’s crucial to remember that a DEXA scan is not a replacement for other cancer screening methods or regular checkups with your doctor. If you have concerns about cancer, always discuss them with your healthcare provider.