*2.3.2 Peripheral quantitative computed tomography (pQCT)*

The measurement sites of pQCT are the distal radius and tibia, and the measurement results at this site mainly reflect the cortical bone mineral density. With a low radiation burden compared to central QCT, this modality not only provides valuable data on volumetric BMD, interseptal BMD, bone geometry, and bone strength, but also provides data including cross-sectional area and muscle density, which can be used to assess the risk of hip fractures in postmenopausal women. Because there is no diagnostic standard at present, it cannot be used for the diagnosis of osteoporosis and the judgment of clinical drug efficacy.
