Can a bone density scan show bone cancer?

Bone density tests can show whether or not there is an area of increased density in the bones, but they cannot determine whether the area is cancerous. If you have a suspicious area of increased density, your doctor may perform a biopsy to determine if cancer is present.

Can a bone density scan diagnose bone cancer?

A bone scan is not a medical exam designed to diagnose cancer. A medical imaging test, a bone scan uses a small amount of radioactive tracer, or “tracer”, to highlight the bones and show the areas where they are growing. A bone scan does not provide information about whether or not the growth is benign or cancerous. A bone scan cannot tell if a growth is cancerous without further testing. A bone scan only tells you whether or not there is enough activity in the

Can bone density scan show bone cancer?

Bone cancer cells grow rapidly and can break away from the original tumor mass (primary cancer). These cancer cells can travel to other parts of the body through the bloodstream, forming metastatic tumors. Bone metastases are usually more advanced than primary bone tumors, making them harder to treat. A bone scan can detect the presence of metastatic bone cancer, helping your doctor determine if the cancer has spread.

Can bone cancer show up on a bone density scan?

A bone density scan can show if you have osteoporosis or osteopenia. Osteoporosis is a disease characterized by weakened bones, making them more susceptible to fracture. Bone density test results determine if you have osteoporosis and what treatment may be most effective. Osteopenia is normal in young people, yet leads to weakened bones as we age.

Can a bone scan diagnose bone cancer?

A bone scan is a diagnostic procedure that uses special tracers to detect areas of increased calcium in the bones. The tracers accumulate in areas of new cancer growth, which appear as dark areas on the scan. This test cannot diagnose cancer based on the scan alone. A diagnosis must be made based on the results of other tests, such as an MRI scan.