single energy X-ray absorptiometry

Last reviewed 01/2018

This is a method of assessing bone mineral density using a single energy X-ray beam.

It is now widely considered inferior to dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry which uses a second energy beam to correct for absorption of X-ray energy by non-calcium containing tissues.

Many previous studies of peripheral bone mineral density measurement for instance at the wrist, used SXA to assess bone mineral density.