Comparing the Diagnostic Accuracy of CBCT Grayscale Values with DXA Values for the Detection of Osteoporosis

Cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) allows for the dimensional evaluation of jaw anatomic structures and the measurement of jawbone mineral density (BMD), to evaluate the relationship between the measured CBCT grayscale (GS) values and (dual X-ray absorptiometry) DXA scores among osteoporotic and normal dental implant participants. In addition, it can help to establish the CBCT GS values in different jaw regions that might indicate or associate osteoporosis. Eighty-one (81) participants (59 females and 22 males) were recruited into this clinical inquiry. Participants’ ages ranged between 36 and 75 years (mean age ± SD: 57.9 ± 9.3 years). The inclusion criteria included patients diagnosed with osteoporosis and were indicated for the dental implant-supported prosthesis.GS values were calculated for each participant using the CBCT radiograph and associated computer software. The average T values obtained from L1, L2, L3 and L4 were recorded and evaluated for one time only, and correlated with CBCT GS values at different jaw positions. Associations between age, gender, GS values, and T values were evaluated by Pearson correlation tests. The GS values at posterior maxilla were able to predict the presence of osteoporosis (P < 0.001, R square = 0.849). On the other hand, attempts to predict T value using GS at different jaw sites showed that GS values at posterior maxilla and anterior mandible were able to predict T value (P < 0.001, R square = 0.924). The CBCT GS values of BMD at different jaw bone regions are significantly related to the DXA T values in the presence of osteoporosis.