CKS is no longer commissioned by the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE). NICE remains committed to providing a replacement service for CKS and is currently reviewing its options. In the meantime, although CKS content is now not being maintained, it still remains relevant and will continue to be made available. CKS content was generated under a programme of topic creation and update. To check if the topic you are viewing is current or out of date, please refer to the topic publication details by clicking on the 'How up-to-date is this topic?' link in the left hand menu on individual topic pages.
Osteoporosis - preventing steroid-induced - Management
When should I arrange a dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) scan?
- Organize a dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) scan for people less than 65 years of age who have been taking oral corticosteroids for 3 months or more, or who are due to start a course of oral corticosteroids that is likely to last for 3 months or more.
- A DXA scan is not necessary prior to starting drug treatment, for the prevention of corticosteroid-induced osteoporosis, in people who are 65 years of age or older, or who are less than 65 years of age with a previous fragility fracture.
© NHS Institute for Innovation and Improvement