Bone Chemistry Test

A Bone Chemistry Test is a set of blood tests used to evaluate bone health, metabolism, and mineral balance. It helps diagnose conditions affecting the bones, joints, and calcium regulation, such as osteoporosis, osteomalacia, bone cancer, and metabolic disorders.

Key Bone Chemistry Tests & Their Functions

1. Calcium Test 🦴

   • Measures calcium levels in the blood.
   • High levels → Hyperparathyroidism, bone cancer, or excessive vitamin D.
   • Low levels → Osteoporosis, kidney disease, or vitamin D deficiency.

2. Phosphorus Test

   • Assesses phosphorus, a key mineral in bones and teeth.
   • High levels → Kidney disease or hormonal disorders.
   • Low levels → Malnutrition, vitamin D deficiency, or bone disorders.

3. Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP) Test

   • An enzyme linked to bone growth and liver function.
   • High ALP → Bone disease, liver issues, or Paget’s disease.
   • Low ALP → Malnutrition or zinc deficiency.

4. Parathyroid Hormone (PTH) Test

   • Regulates calcium and phosphorus levels in the blood.
   • High PTH → Hyperparathyroidism (overactive parathyroid glands).
   • Low PTH → Hypoparathyroidism, leading to weak bones.

5. Vitamin D Test ☀️

   • Checks vitamin D levels, essential for calcium absorption.
   • Deficiency can lead to rickets (in children) or osteomalacia (soft bones in adults).

6. Magnesium Test

   • Magnesium is crucial for bone structure and calcium balance.
   • Low magnesium → Weak bones, cramps, and fatigue.

7. Bone-Specific Alkaline Phosphatase (BAP) Test

   • Measures bone formation activity.
   • Used to monitor osteoporosis treatment.

8. C-Telopeptide (CTX) & N-Telopeptide (NTX) Tests

   • These detect bone breakdown markers, helping in osteoporosis evaluation.

Why is a Bone Chemistry Test Done?

✅ To check bone strength and health.
✅ To diagnose osteoporosis, osteomalacia, or bone cancer.
✅ To monitor calcium, vitamin D, and phosphorus levels.
✅ To detect parathyroid disorders affecting bones.
✅ To evaluate bone healing after fractures or surgery.