Evaluation of Bone Mineral Density Indications and Outcomes in Female Adolescents: Implications for Early Detection of Osteopenia/Osteoporosis and Gynecologic Practice

Adolescence is a critical period for bone mass acquisition, and disturbances during this stage may predispose to osteopenia or osteoporosis in later life. Various clinical conditions encountered in gynecology, endocrinology, and other specialties may require evaluation of bone mineral density (BMD). However, data on referral indications and bone health outcomes in adolescents remain scarce. This retrospective study focuses on female adolescents aged 12-21 years who underwent dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) scans at a tertiary care center. The cohort includes patients referred from the adolescent gynecology clinic as well as those referred from other medical departments. The study objectives are: To compare referral indications for BMD testing between gynecology and other specialties. To evaluate differences in BMD Z-scores across specific gynecologic diagnoses, including premature ovarian insufficiency (POI), functional hypothalamic amenorrhea (FHA), and hypogonadotropic hypogonadism. To examine the relationship between clinical features (such as age at menarche and duration of amenorrhea) and BMD outcomes within the gynecology group. The analysis will provide insight into how referral patterns, gynecologic and endocrine conditions, and clinical characteristics influence bone health in adolescent girls. By highlighting risk factors for low BMD, the study aims to support earlier recognition and management of bone health problems in this population.