"Regular" bone density tests for those on an aromatase inhibitor

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Katmil426
Katmil426 Member Posts: 15
edited November 2016 in IDC (Invasive Ductal Carcinoma)

My MO says I need a bone density scan every 2 years while I am taking Femara. One of my other doctors (NOT an oncologist)

thinks I should have those tests at least annually because she's heard of patients having bone loss after only a year of hormonal

therapy. Anyone have anything else to contribute to this? In the NCCN guidelines it just recommends "regular" bone density scans

while undergoing hormonal therapy. Thanks!

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  • KBeee
    KBeee Member Posts: 5,109
    edited October 2016

    mine does it every 2 years

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  • ChiSandy
    ChiSandy Member Posts: 12,133
    edited October 2016

    The only reason not to order annual DEXAScans for AI-taking patients is purely financial—insurers & Medicare won’t pay for scans any oftener than every 2 years, just like with non-cancer patients who may not even have osteopenia! Shameful!

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  • doxie
    doxie Member Posts: 1,455
    edited October 2016

    You can get a DEXA more often than each 2 years if on an AI and your previous one showed a decrease. I'm covered by an HMO and got instant approval for my next one - one year out of the last. Or maybe I just have a great HMO. Nothing my doctors have requested has been challenged. I've saved thousands staying on the HMO throughout treatment.

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  • wintersocks
    wintersocks Member Posts: 922
    edited November 2016

    Here in Britain it is every two years too and the scan is free.

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