Bone Screen Blood Test

What is Included In the Bone Screen Test?

• A Blood test
• 10-minute appointment
• No GP referral required
• Results sent electronically within 7 working days.

Please note: We only scan patients over the age of 18 years. For multiple pregnancies, there is an additional charge of £25

What is a bone screen?

A bone screen is a collection of blood tests that assess bone and mineral metabolism. It commonly includes calcium, phosphate, alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and sometimes magnesium and vitamin D. Together, these markers give insight into how the body builds, breaks down, and maintains bone tissue.

Why is a bone screen blood test performed?

A bone screen is ordered when a person has unexplained bone pain, recurrent fractures, and/or abnormal calcium levels. This test is very useful in the diagnosis of osteoporosis, vitamin D deficiency, parathyroid disorders, Paget’s disease, and certain cancers that spread to bone (e.g., multiple myeloma, metastasis). We can also use this test to monitor chronic kidney disease since kidney function affects calcium and phosphate balance.

Doctors may request this test for individuals on long-term medications such as corticosteroids, anti-epileptic drugs, and hormone therapies. It can also provide valuable information before or during treatment for conditions that affect vitamin D and/or calcium metabolism.

Limitations of a bone screen

The test gives biochemical information but does not show structural changes within bones. A normal result does not exclude early osteoporosis. In the presence of abnormal values, additional information from the medical history and imaging findings (e.g., DEXA scan) is indispensable.

Temporary fluctuations may occur due to dehydration, diet, supplements, and recent illness.

How to prepare for the test?

Fasting is not necessary. Patients should drink water before the appointment to facilitate the process of drawing blood. Additionally, calcium or vitamin D supplements should be disclosed to the clinic as they can alter results. Ideally, these should not be taken on the morning of the test.

When will my results become available?

Results are generally available within 7 working days. The clinician will review the patterns across the different components of the panel since the interpretation of multiple parameters together gives us a clearer picture of their bone health. Abnormal results may warrant additional testing, imaging, or treatment modification to optimise bone and mineral health.