Uses and misuses of quantitative ultrasonography in managing osteoporosis.

Quantitative ultrasonography is attractive as a test for osteoporosis, being precise, radiation-free, portable, and inexpensive, but it is still no substitute for the gold-standard test, dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA). At present, it cannot be used to diagnose osteoporosis or to monitor the effects of medications on bone density. As more data become available, however, it may play a larger role. A thorough understanding of the utility and limitations of this test is necessary for using it effectively in clinical practice.