Osteomark Test (NTX Assay)

The NTX assay is a urine test, which measures a specific type of metabolic derivative of Type I collagen, which is found primarily in bone. It specifically measures N-telopeptide of Type I collagen. The Osteomark NTX test can be used to monitor the rate of bone loss and the success of therapy for osteoporosis. The Osteomark NTX test provides an avenue to acquire feedback, and it is used in conjunction with dual X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA). In contrast to DEXA scans, which may not show a therapeutic response for two years, the NTX test can more quickly give an accurate assessment of bone metabolism.

Reducing urinary excretion of NTX over a two-year period has been shown to increase bone density measurements. One recent study, which was published in the Archives of Internal Medicine, (Vol. 157, page 1241, 1997), showed a sex-specific peak bone mass increase that would be relevant to men and women over age 50.

Dale Guyer, M.D.