ABSTRACT
Quantitative ultrasonography is attractive as a test for osteoporosis, being precise, radiation-free, portable, and inexpensive, but it is still no substitute for the gold-standard test, dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA). At present, it cannot be used to diagnose osteoporosis or to monitor the effects of medications on bone density. As more data become available, however, it may play a larger role. A thorough understanding of the utility and limitations of this test is necessary for using it effectively in clinical practice.
Footnotes
↵* Dr. Lewiecki has indicated that he has received grant or research support from the Amgen, Aventis, Eli Lilly, GlaxoSmithKline, Merck, Novartis, Pfizer, Procter and Gamble, Roche, and Wyeth-Ayerst corporations; has served as a consultant, on the advisory board, speakers’ bureau, or at sponsored speaking events for the Amgen, Aventis, Eli Lilly, GlaxoSmithKline, Merck, Novartis, Procter and Gamble, Roche, Servier, and Wyeth-Ayerst corporations; and is a direct stock shareholder in the General Electric corporation.
↵† Dr. Richmond has indicated that he has received grant or research support from the Aventis corporation and served as a consultant or on the speakers’ bureau of the Merck and Procter and Gamble corporations.
↵‡ Dr. Miller has indicated that he has received scientific grants from the Amgen, Aventis, Eli Lilly, Merck, Novartis, Pfizer, Pharmacia, Procter and Gamble, and Roche corporations and has served on the speakers’ bureau, advisory board, or as a consultant for the Amgen, Aventis, Eli Lilly, GlaxoSmithKline, Merck, Novartis, NPS, Procter and Gamble, and Roche corporations.
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