Advances in Osteoporosis Imaging and Diagnosis

Background: Osteoporosis is a condition of low bone mass and microstructural deterioration, leading to increased fracture risk. It often progresses silently, making early diagnosis essential. Dual-energy X-ray Absorptiometry (DXA) and the Fracture Risk Assessment Tool (FRAX) are common diagnostic methods, but their limitations have driven the development of advanced imaging techniques. This review explores current and emerging imaging technologies for osteoporosis. Materials and Methods: Traditional Imaging Techniques: ⚫ DXA: Commonly used for bone mineral density (BMD) measurements, providing a quick and low-radiation option. ⚫ CT and MRI: Standard methods for body composition analysis, though expensive and time-consuming. • Ultrasound: Portable and non-invasive but less reliable. Emerging Methods: ⚫ Trabecular Bone Score (TBS): Evaluates bone texture to enhance fracture prediction. • Finite Element Analysis (FEA): Uses imaging data to model bone strength and fracture risk. • Artificial Intelligence (AI): Machine learning techniques, such as Support Vector Machines (SVM), improve diagnostic accuracy by analyzing imaging data. Experimental System: An image processing system for tibial images achieved ۸۳.۶% accuracy, demonstrating the potential of combining advanced algorithms with traditional imaging. Results: DXA remains the gold standard for osteoporosis diagnosis, enhanced by tools like TBS and FEA, which improve fracture risk prediction. AI systems show promising results, often matching or exceeding expert performance. However, challenges with standardization and clinical application remain. Integrating imaging with computational tools enables personalized treatment plans and effective monitoring. Conclusion: Innovations in imaging technologies, such as TBS, FEA, and AI, address DXA's limitations, improving fracture risk prediction and personalized care. However, challenges like cost, standardization, and clinical integration must be overcome for wider adoption. Further research and global consensus are needed to establish best practices in osteoporosis diagnosis.

کلیدواژه ها:

Osteoporosis ، Bone Mineral Density (BMD) ، Dual-energy X-ray Absorptiometry (DXA) ، Trabecular Bone Score (TBS) ، Finite Element Analysis (FEA) ، Artificial Intelligence (AI) ، Imaging Techniques ، Fracture Risk ، Osteosarcopenia