Here are several possible abnormal pap-results:
LSIL is a low-grade abnormality. Your doctor sees changes in your cells, but isn’t cancer. Your doctor will likely call for a colposcopy exam, which will take place in the doctor’s office. Depending on the results of the colposcopy, you may need a LEEP or Cone Biopsy.
Bone Densitometry is a radiological procedure done to detect low bone mass. It is the gold standard for diagnosing osteoporosis or low bone density. The bone densitometry or DXA scan allows for a diagnosis of osteoporosis or osteopenia in patients prior to a fracture.
The patient is asked to lay face up on a padded x-ray table for approximately 10-20 minutes.
The patient should be comfortably dressed, with clothing that does not have metallic ornamentation. We do not ask that any clothing be removed, but you will be asked to remove any metal objects and jewelry that is around your waist.
A scanner arm moves over the patient’s body but does not touch the patient or cause any pain. A low dose of radiation is then used to measure the bone density in the lower spine, hip and possibly the arm. This is known as a T-score. A Z-score is also obtained.
A T-score is when the bone mass or density is then calculated and compared to the peak bone mass of a controlled population at age 30. A normal T-score is -1 and above. A low bone mass is between -1 and -2.5.
Bone density tests are begun at age 50 or within the first two to three years after becoming menopausal.
Sometimes a patient is asked to have a scan at a much earlier age due to medications they are taking or because of family history. Certain medications such as Depo Provera, Femara, Arimidex anti-convulsant medications, steroids, or antacids can cause bone loss.
A patient should not have a DXA if they have had any x-ray dye in their system within the last 48 hours.
Pregnant women should not have a DXA scan.
We ask that a patient stop taking calcium at least 2 days before the DXA is performed.