DEXA (Dual-Energy X-Ray Absorptiometry), widely known for its use in the diagnosis of osteoporosis, is also the most reliable method of whole-body fat measurement and body composition analysis. The DEXA (Dual-Energy X-Ray Absorptiometry) method, widely known for its use in the diagnosis of osteoporosis, is also the most reliable method of whole-body fat measurement and body composition analysis. With DExA, the distribution of body fat, non-adipose tissue (muscle, water, connective tissue), total bone weight is accurately calculated and analyzed, while an objective assessment of body fat distribution is performed. The DEXA method can estimate with extremely high accuracy the loss or gain of muscle mass or adipose tissue, measuring the amount per specific area of the body. The examination is performed with the patient in a supine position and with the machine “scanning” the entire surface of the body. Compared to other imaging methods, the amount of radiation received by the examinee is extremely low. The examination lasts 10-20 minutes and is completely painless. The DExA method is considered the gold standard for body composition analysis.
Analysis with the DEXA method, in addition to the medical field, is particularly useful for monitoring nutrition, athletes, and metabolism, as the data it provides is accurate and allows for re-checking and therefore evaluating the progress of a program or treatment. The whole-body analysis also categorizes body type (androgynous or gynecomastia), based on fat distribution, because it measures intra-abdominal fat, which is recognized as an important factor in predisposing to morbidity and premature death due to obesity.