Robert A Adler1, Marc C Hochberg. 1. Endocrinology Section (111-P), McGuire Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Richmond, VA 23249, USA. robert.adler@med.va.gov
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis is an important disorder in the predominantly male US veteran population. Department of Veterans Affairs facilities vary considerably in evaluation and management of glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis. METHODS: We suggest how evaluation and management can take place in medical centers with and without bone mineral density measurements by dual energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA). The proposed guidelines can be applied to other health care systems. RESULTS: Use of DXA can help determine fracture risk for patients taking glucocorticoid therapy and for those starting therapy for at least 3 months. Patients with low bone mineral density should be treated with a bisphosponate as should all patients about to start prednisone treatment at a dose of 7.5 mg/d or more. In facilities without DXA, most patients should be treated with bisphosphonates, the cost of which is about $30 to $35 per month. In addition, the use of urinary calcium measurements is encouraged to determine which patients might benefit from augmented vitamin D and calcium supplementation. CONCLUSION: Attention to fracture risk assessment in patients undergoing glucocorticoid therapy and timely bisphosphonate treatment should lead to fewer fractures.
BACKGROUND: Glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis is an important disorder in the predominantly male US veteran population. Department of Veterans Affairs facilities vary considerably in evaluation and management of glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis. METHODS: We suggest how evaluation and management can take place in medical centers with and without bone mineral density measurements by dual energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA). The proposed guidelines can be applied to other health care systems. RESULTS: Use of DXA can help determine fracture risk for patients taking glucocorticoid therapy and for those starting therapy for at least 3 months. Patients with low bone mineral density should be treated with a bisphosponate as should all patients about to start prednisone treatment at a dose of 7.5 mg/d or more. In facilities without DXA, most patients should be treated with bisphosphonates, the cost of which is about $30 to $35 per month. In addition, the use of urinary calcium measurements is encouraged to determine which patients might benefit from augmented vitamin D and calcium supplementation. CONCLUSION: Attention to fracture risk assessment in patients undergoing glucocorticoid therapy and timely bisphosphonate treatment should lead to fewer fractures.
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