How is osteoporosis diagnosed?

Osteoporosis most commonly is found either on routine examination, or following a pathologic fracture (a fracture due to weakened bone). X-rays usually show a generalized loss of bone density. Laboratory studies are not too helpful in showing evidence of osteoporosis, but they are helpful in showing evidence of conditions that can have symptoms similar to osteoporosis. Laboratory studies can show evidence of osteomalacia, kidney failure, parathyroid gland insufficiency, or other problems that can mimic osteoporosis and cause bone weakness.