Bone Densitometry: Current Status and Future Perspective.

In this chapter, we discuss the concept of what determines bone strength and fracture risk and how this can be quantified using current technologies. We describe bone densitometry measurement techniques that are currently available and consider the strengths and limitations of each technique, with particular emphasis on paediatric scanning. Magnetic resonance imaging is reviewed, as it is one of the newer technologies applied to assessment of the growing skeleton. The role of dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry and quantitative computed tomography in the clinical assessment of bone health in children is considered, and their current diagnostic application is reviewed.