DEXA is probably the least spoken scanning technique in the armoury of radiologists.It stands for Dual Energy X ray Absorptiometry.Unlike other imaging techniques(Radiograph,Ultrasonograph,CT scanner,MR scanner),DEXA has limited applications.Its principal ,well established application is to estimate the Bone Mineral Content(Density) in the body and hence in the diagnosis of osteoporosis .It is also used in the follow up of osteoporotic patients and response to therapy instituted.

Second well known application is to determine body composition so as to know the fat content ,lean mass and fat free mass of the body.This is utilised in clinical settings of HIV- AIDS,anorexia nervosa,cancers.

It is used  in fitness enthusiasts to know their fat composition and their goal for fitness regimes. Related scenario is in athletes and sports persons so as to customise their training based on total and regional distribution of fat.

Another imaging scenario is to estimate the VAT (Visceral Adipose Tissue) which helps to assess for future risk for cardiovascular event and diabetes mellitus.