Can a DEXA scan show the thyroid?

The thyroid is in the neck, whereas DEXA measurements are usually taken at the hip and lower spine. Thyroid disease can still matter when a clinician assesses bone health because thyroid hormone imbalance, or treatment that changes hormone levels, may affect bone turnover. That connection does not mean the DEXA image can diagnose a thyroid condition. Thyroid concerns are usually assessed with symptoms, a neck examination and blood tests, with ultrasound or other imaging when clinically appropriate.

Tell your clinician about thyroid disease, thyroid medicines, palpitations, heat intolerance, neck swelling or changes in weight before discussing your bone result. Do not stop prescribed medicine based on a DEXA report. Ask whether thyroid blood tests are appropriate and whether your bone-density result needs follow-up. For the scan itself, read [DEXA Scanner](/technology/dexa-scanner/) and [Bone Density Scan](/treatments/diagnostics-and-screening/bone-density-scan/).

Arrange a clinical review for a new neck lump, persistent hoarseness, trouble swallowing, or symptoms suggesting thyroid imbalance. Seek urgent help for difficulty breathing, rapidly increasing neck swelling, chest pain, fainting, or a very fast or irregular heartbeat. These symptoms need prompt assessment and are not answered by a DEXA scan.

Could my thyroid history affect my bone health? Do I need thyroid blood tests? What does my hip or spine density show? Should my thyroid and bone medicines be reviewed together?