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Who is best trained to read DEXA scans?

Page last modified on: September 9, 2008
Question from Ann: There are many places to get DEXA scans. In some places the scans are read by radiologists, other places by gynecologists and interns. Who is best trained to read your DEXA scan? There seems to be a lot of competition for our dollars.
Answers —Marisa Weiss, M.D., president and founder: In general DEXA scans are done within the radiology department. The quick scan of a hand, foot or ankle is the type of test that is often done in a gynecologist's office. In my experience, radiologists and a computerized program that they work with usually interpret and issue a report on the DEXA scan result. Then your doctor takes that information and compares it to the prior DEXA scan result and pulls in other information that may be useful.
Charles Shapiro, M.D.: In each community there's a doctor more experienced with DEXA scans who may serve as the local expert, and women should ask their doctors if they know who the experts are in their area.

On Wednesday, August 21, 2002, our Ask-the-Expert Online Conference was called Keeping Your Bones Strong. Charles L. Shapiro, M.D. and Marisa Weiss, M.D. answered your questions about how to measure the strength of your bones, how to find out your risk for osteoporosis, and what you can do to lower that risk.

The materials presented in these conferences do not necessarily reflect the views of breastcancer.org. A qualified healthcare professional should be consulted before using any therapeutic product or regimen discussed. All readers should verify all information and data before employing any therapies described here.

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Meet the Experts

Charles L. Shapiro, M.D.

Charles L. Shapiro, M.D. is a medical oncologist specializing in breast cancer, and associate professor at the Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center. 

Marisa Weiss, M.D. is a radiation oncologist specializing in breast cancer and the founder, president, and guiding force behind Breastcancer.org.

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