Which of the following is NOT measured by a DXA scan?

A DXA (Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry) scan is primarily used to assess bone health by measuring bone mineral density (BMD) and can provide additional information about body composition. When considering what is included in a typical DXA scan measurement profile, it is important to recognize which aspects of body composition it accurately evaluates.

Bone Mineral Content (BMC) is a fundamental measurement obtained through DXA as it directly quantifies the mineral content in the bones, providing insight into bone density and strength.

Fat-free mass is also measured by DXA. This includes the total mass of the body minus all the fat mass, encompassing muscle, water, and bone. DXA provides a direct estimation of fat-free mass through its analysis of the body’s composition.

Body Fat Percentage is another metric that DXA can assess. By using dual-energy X-ray technology, the scan can differentiate between fat mass and lean mass, allowing for an estimate of body fat as a percentage of total body weight.

In contrast, Skeletal Muscle Mass is not directly measured by DXA. While DXA can provide estimates of lean body mass, it does not give a specific measurement of skeletal muscle mass, which is generally determined through other methods such as bioelectrical