The strategy for the treatment of osteoporosis

Abstract

Osteoporosis InternationalOsteoporosis is a systemic skeletal disease characterized by low bone mass and microarchitectural deterioration of bone tissue, with a consequent increase in bone fragility and susceptibility to fractures. Bone mineral density measurements form the basis for an operational definition of osteoporosis with better clinical utility. A study group of the World Health Organization (WHO) has proposed diagnostic guidelines for the interpretation of a bone mass measurement in Caucasian women [1]:1. Severe osteoporosis: bone mineral density (BMO) more than 2.5 standard deviations (SO) below the mean value of peak bone mass in young normal women and the presence of fractures. 2. Osteoporosis: BMO more than 2.5 SO below the mean value of peak bone mass in young normal women. Low bone mass (or osteopenia): BMD between -1 SO and -2.5 SO of the mean value of peak bone mass in young normal women. 4. Normal: BMO not more than 1 SO below the mean value of peak bone mass in young normal women. This operational definition is practical but clearly not perfect, and as in the diagnosis and assessment of most disorders, history, physical and biochemical exarnination are important features which should be included in the diagnostic and therapeutic considerations.

Osteoporosis update 1997

“…Christiansen [30] analyzed the characteristics and limitations of each medicine and discussed the promising new drugs: fluoride, anabolie steroids, PTH and strontium.…”