The antifracture efficacy of vitamin D in adults - are we assessing it reliably? A systematic review

INTRODUCTION

The antifracture efficacy of vitamin D is still controversial. The aim of this systematic review was to examine if the vitamin D trials were designed adequately to reliably assess its antifracture activity.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The electronic databases PubMed, Medline, Embase, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library were searched to identify clinical trials evaluating the antifracture efficacy of vitamin D in adults. We compared the protocols of the trials against the opinions of the American Society for Bone and Mineral Research (ASBMR), International Society for Clinical Densitometry (ISCD), National Osteoporosis Foundation (NOF), European Medicines Agency (EMEA) experts, and the consensus statement from the 2nd International Conference on Controversies in Vitamin D, and against the protocols of the trials of the medications with proven antifracture efficacy (bisphosphonates, teriparatide, abaloparatide, raloxifene, denosumab, romosozumab). We assessed the prospective character, study design, group description, number of patients, study duration, and vitamin D (serum examination and dosage) supplementation. A description of the desired characteristics of the study protocol was presented.

RESULTS

Thirteen eligible trials were identified. All but 2 were conducted in the elderly population only. Nine trials were included in the final analysis. Serum 25-hydroxy vitamin D (25OHD) was not measured in a representative number of subjects before (except in 2 studies), during, or after treatment in any study.

CONCLUSIONS

The analysed studies did not conclusively assess the vitamin D antifracture efficacy in patients with prestudy low serum vitamin levels, due to the lack of assessment of whether sufficient doses of vitamin D were used. They informed about the relevant doses and preparations of vitamin D in particular groups (specific fracture risk, age, place of residence) only.

Therapy With Intravenous Methylprednisolone Pulses Is Associated With Loss of Bone Microarchitecture in Trabecular Bone Score -Assessment Among Patients With Moderate-to-Severe Graves' Orbitopathy: A Pilot Study

BACKGROUND

Therapy with intravenous glucocorticoids (GCs) is associated with various side effects, however, the impact on bone remains elusive. Trabecular bone score (TBS) is a diagnostic tool providing information on bone microarchitecture based on images obtained from dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. We investigated the influence of the intravenous methylprednisolone (IVMP) pulse administration on TBS in patients with moderate-to-severe Graves' orbitopathy (GO).

METHODS

Fifteen patients with GO were treated with 12 IVMP pulses (6x0.5g, 6x0.25 g on a weekly schedule). They received supplementation with 2000 IU of vitamin D and 1.0 g of calcium throughout the study period. TBS was assessed at baseline and after last IVMP pulse. To determine the difference between values at baseline and after treatment the least significant change (LSC) methodology was used. We compared pre- and posttreatment mean TBS values.

RESULTS

We found a significant decrease of TBS in 5 out of 15 (33%) patients. Mean TBS value decreased becoming 2.4% lower than at baseline (p<0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

IVMP pulse therapy exerts negative effect on bone microarchitecture in TBS assessment. The analysis of the clinical risk factors for osteoporosis and the evaluation of bone mineral density and TBS should be considered before initiating IVMP therapy.

FRAX prognostic and intervention thresholds in the management of major bone fractures in hemodialysis patients: A two-year prospective multicenter cohort study

PURPOSE

The usefulness of FRAX in predicting major bone fractures in patients with end-stage kidney disease on maintenance hemodialysis treatment has been confirmed in previous studies. For meaningful clinical use, the prognostic and intervention FRAX thresholds need to be established.

METHODS

The primary aim of our study was to calculate the optimal cut-off point of FRAX for the best prediction of an increased bone fracture risk in dialysis patients and additionally, to propose its intervention threshold, indicating the need for antifracture pharmacological treatment. The study included 718 hemodialysis patients, who were followed up for two years. Thirty low-energy major bone fractures were diagnosed during the study period. We used the Polish version of FRAX (without the DXA examination) and some particular variables of the FRAX calculator. The optimal cut-off point for prediction of an increased major bone fracture risk was based on the analysis of the sensitivity and specificity curves of FRAX.

RESULTS

The analysis revealed FRAX >5% (sensitivity of 70.0%, specificity of 69.8%) as the prognostic threshold for major bone fractures. Its sensitivity for bone fracture prediction was significantly higher, but specificity lower than those of FRAX ≥10%, used in general Polish population. The reason for this can be an underestimation of bone fracture risk with FRAX in dialysis patients.

CONCLUSIONS

We conclude that the FRAX prognostic threshold for identification of an increased risk of major bone fractures in hemodialysis patients is >5%. We propose to use this specific value of FRAX as an intervention threshold for pharmacological antifracture treatment in hemodialysis patients.

Therapy of moderate-to-severe Graves' orbitopathy with intravenous methylprednisolone pulses is not associated with loss of bone mineral density

PURPOSE

To evaluate the influence of intravenous methylprednisolone (IVMP) pulse administration on bone mineral density (BMD) of the lumbar spine and the femoral neck in patients with moderate-to-severe Graves' orbitopathy (GO).

METHODS

Thirty-five patients with GO in euthyreosis were treated with 12 IVMP pulses (6 × 0.5 g, 6 × 0.25 g on a weekly schedule). Supplementation with 1.0 g of calcium and 800 IU of vitamin D was initiated in all patients before beginning therapy. BMD of the lumbar spine (L1-L4) and the femoral neck were assessed at baseline and after the last IVMP pulse using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. To determine differences in BMD between values at baseline and after treatment, we used the least significant change (LSC) methodology. LSC values were calculated to be 3 and 5% for the lumbar spine and the femoral neck, respectively. Change in BMD equal to or exceeding the LSC was assessed as either increase or decrease of BMD. We then compared pre-treatment and post-treatment mean BMD values at the lumbar spine and the femoral neck.

RESULTS

We did not observe a decrease of BMD at any site equal to or exceeding the LSC. We found an increase of BMD in at least one measurement site equal to or exceeding the LSC value in 43% of patients, mostly in the lumbar spine (31%). Mean femoral neck BMD did not change while mean lumbar BMD increased.

CONCLUSIONS

IVMP given in weekly intravenous pulses does not lead to loss of BMD of the lumbar spine and the femoral neck.

The utility of FRAX® in predicting bone fractures in patients with chronic kidney disease on hemodialysis: a two-year prospective multicenter cohort study

We assessed the FRAX® method in 718 hemodialyzed patients in estimating increased risk of bone major and hip fractures. Over two prospective years, statistical analysis showed that FRAX® enables a better assessment of bone major fracture risk in these patients than any of its components and other risk factors considered in the analysis.

INTRODUCTION

Despite the generally increased risk of bone fractures among patients with end-stage renal disease, no prediction models for identifying individuals at particular risk have been developed to date. The goal of this prospective, multicenter observational study was to assess the usefulness of the FRAX® method in comparison to all its elements considered separately, selected factors associated with renal disease and the history of falls, in estimating increased risk of low-energy major bone and hip fractures in patients undergoing chronic hemodialysis.

METHODS

The study included a total of 1068 hemodialysis patients, who were followed for 2 years, and finally, 718 of them were analyzed. The risk analysis included the Polish version of the FRAX® calculator (without bone mineral density), dialysis vintage, mineral metabolism disorders (serum calcium, phosphate, and parathyroid hormone), and the number of falls during the last year before the study.

RESULTS

Over 2 years, low-energy 30 major bone fractures were diagnosed and 13 of hip fractures among them. Area under the curve for FRAX® was 0.76 (95% CI 0.69-0.84) for major fractures and 0.70 (95% CI 0.563-0.832) for hip fractures. The AUC for major bone fractures was significantly higher than for all elements of the FRAX® calculator. In logistic regression analysis FRAX® was the strongest independent risk factor of assessment of the major bone fracture risk.

CONCLUSIONS

FRAX® enables a better assessment of major bone fracture risk in ESRD patients undergoing hemodialysis than any of its components and other risk factors considered in the analysis.

Bone mineralization and densitometric evaluation of vertebral fractures in women 6-21 years after the onset of anorexia nervosa symptoms

OBJECTIVES

We attempted to assess bone mineralization and the frequency of fractures occurrence in women with a history of treatment of anorexia nervosa (AN) in adolescence.

METHODS

47 women (age 20-36.8 years) were re-examined 6.33-21,2 years after the onset of AN symptoms. Bone mineral density (BMD) of total body, lumbar spine, femoral neck, total hip (DXA) and densitometric Vertebral Fracture Assessment (VFA) were performed on 46 of women and BAP, P1NP, CTX, estradiol, testosterone, cortisol, IGF-1, leptin, DHEA-S on 45 of women entered for the current study. Current BMD results were compared with available baseline results from the time of hospitalization.

RESULTS

Currently BMD Z-score <-1 examined at any location occurred in 28 from 46 women (including Z-score <-2 in 5 women). In 11 from 12 women with reduced BMD at the time of hospitalization current total body BMD was within the normal range. Lumbar spine BMD was normalized or improved respectively in 5 and 6 from 15 women. Currently increased levels/activity of bone formation markers: P1NP in 27 (60%) and BAP in 28 women (62.2%) were observed. In 7 women (15.6%) increased values of bone formation markers with increased marker of bone resorption (CTX) occurred. Osteoporotic fractures and fractures in the spine in VFA were not observed during the observation period.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite early treatment of adolescent-onset AN and good outcomes of the treatment, decreased BMD was currently present in 60.9% of women. During follow-up normalization or significant improvement in BMD results (total body, lumbar spine) were observed in majority of cases.

Bone mineralization disorders as a complication of anorexia nervosa - etiology, prevalence, course and treatment

Anorexia nervosa (AN) most often has its onset in adolescence, which is a crucial period to achieve peak bone mass. The hormonal abnormalities (hypoestrogenism, hypercortisolism, decreased secretion of dehydroepiandrosterone, testosterone, insulin-like growth factor) and malnutrition are associated with profound bone mineralization disorders. Densitomertic bone mineral density (BMD) values for osteopenia and osteoporosis were found respectively in 35-98% and 13-50% of women with AN. Prospective studies indicate a further decline in BMD at the beginning of treatment and a crucial importance of weight gain and return of spontaneous menses for its growth. Due to frequent chronic and relapsing course of AN densitometric assessment of BMD is recommended in all patients with AN and amenorrhea lasting around twelve months. In order to establish standards for the treatment of osteoporosis in AN, studies on pharmacological treatment are conducted. There are promising results indicating the improvement in BMD after treatment with physiologic oestrogen replacement treatment and sequential administration of medroxyprogesterone in teenage girls and bisphosphonates in adult women. Supplementation of vitamin D and adequate consumption of calcium from diet are recommended. Further studies on the effectiveness of long-term treatment of osteoporosis with regard to the possibility of increase in BMD and reducing the risk of osteoporotic fractures are needed.

BONE MINERAL DENSITY IN CHILDREN WITH IDIOPATHIC HYPERCALCIURIA

The aim of the study was to evaluate bone mineral density (BMD) in the lumbar spine in children with idiopathic hypercalciuria.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The study group included 31 children (14 boys, 17 girls) aged 5 to 17 years (mean age 9.8 ± 4.0 years) with idiopathic hypercalciuria. All children remained on normal calcium diet, without vitamin D and citrate supplementation. We evaluated lumbar spine (L1-L4) BMD (L1-L4 BMD) (expressed as Z-score) and blood serum levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 (250HD3), calcium (Ca), phosphorus (P), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and intact parathormone (iPTH). We also evaluated 24-hour urinary Ca, P, and sodium (Na) excretion.

RESULTS

Reduced L1-L4 BMD Z-score <-1 was found in 25.8% of children, Z-score values from -1 to 1 in 64.5% of children, and Z-score > 1 in 9.7% of children. Reduced 250HD3 level (< 20 ng/mL) was found in 71% of children, levels in the range of 20-30 ng/mL in 22.6% of children, and levels > 30 ng/mL in 6.4% of children. Seven out of 8 children with L1-L4 BMD Z-score <-1 were found to have 250HD3 deficiency (level < 20 ng/mL). Among children with reduced lumbar spine BMD, most were girls at the mean age of 13.8 years. Ca and P levels were normal in all children. We did not find significant differences in 25OHD3, Ca, and P levels in relation to gender and age. We found a positive correlation between L1-L4 BMD Z-score and serum 250HD3 level. Concomitant nephrolithiasis was found in 50% of patients with reduced lumbar spine BMD.

CONCLUSIONS

Reduced lumbar spine BMD in patients with idiopathic hypercalciuria seems to be related to vitamin D3 deficiency.

Long-term cholecalciferol administration in hemodialysis patients: a single-center randomized pilot study

BACKGROUND

Data on the potent pleiotropic extraskeletal effects of vitamin D have renewed interest in its use in selected populations, including patients with chronic kidney disease, but the available data are still insufficient to make recommendations. This study assessed the long-term effect of small cholecalciferol doses on serum vitamin D, parathormone (PTH), and bone mineral density (BMD) in hemodialysis patients.

MATERIAL/METHODS

Nineteen patients with serum 25(OH)D <20 ng/mL were randomized into cholecalciferol (2000 IU 3×/week) and no-treatment groups, then observed for 1 year. Patients with hypercalcemia, hyperphosphatemia, and receiving vitamin D/calcimimetics were excluded. Serum 25(OH)D, 1,25(OH)2D, PTH, and alkaline phosphatase activity were examined every 2 months and BMD was measured before and after the study.

RESULTS

We observed normalization of serum 25(OH)D with an increase in medians from 11.3 to 44.9 ng/mL (P=0.02) in the cholecalciferol group and no change in the controls (P<0.001). Simultaneously, median serum 1,25(OH)2D increased from 18.2 to 43.1 pmol/L (P=0.02) in the cholecalciferol group and from 10.6 to 21.2 pmol/L (P=0.02) in controls (P=0.013). The treatment was associated with a small increase in serum calcium, but serum phosphate, PTH, alkaline phosphatase, and BMD remained unchanged in both groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Oral cholecalciferol at a dose of 2000 IU/3×/week is an effective and safe way to treat vitamin D deficiency in hemodialysis patients, leading to a significant increase in serum 1,25(OH)2D. However, it was insufficient to suppress the activity of parathyroid glands or to significantly change BMD.

[Recommendations for mineral and bone disorder in chronic kidney disease]

The current recommendations for the diagnostics and therapy in mineral and bone disorders (MBD) in chronic kidney disease (CKD) developed by an international group of experts KDIGO and the Board of the Polish Nephrology Consultant's Working Group are presented in the paper. MBD--begin already in the early stages of CKD, and are an important cause of increased morbidity and mortality in this population. The main goals of the therapy are to maintain calcium and phosphate homeostasis and to keep serum parathyroid hormone concentrations in the optimal range.

Strontium ranelate in post-menopausal osteoporosis

Strontium ranelate is one of the first-line agents with proven anti-fracture activity used in the therapy of post-menopausal osteoporosis. Its mechanism of action makes it, however, different from other drugs, since it simultaneously stimulates two reverse processes: bone formation and bone resorption. The action of the agent depends on various mechanisms, including the activation of calcium receptors, localised on osteoblasts and osteoclasts, and on the influence on the OPG/RANKL system. The drug effectively prevents spinal, hip and extravertebral fractures. The agent's anti-fracture efficacy within the spine does not depend on the patient's age, or on base BMD values, or on the concentration of bone metabolism markers. As to the anti-fracture efficacy in the hip, it concerns women with an increased bone fracture risk. Strontium ranelate increases bone mineral density within the lumbar spine and the hip, decreases the concentrations of bone resorption markers, and increases the concentrations of bone formation markers. The drug is administered in a daily 2.0 g oral dose. This paper presents indications to therapy with strontium ranelate, specifying also its side effects and contraindications. We compare the anti-fracture efficacy of strontium ranelate to the efficacy of other agents of proven anti-fracture activity, based on published clinical studies.

[Strontium ranelate in post-menopausal osteoporosis]

Strontium ranelate is one of the first-line agents with proven anti-fracture activity used in the therapy of post-menopausal osteoporosis. Its mechanism of action makes it, however, different from other drugs, since it simultaneously stimulates two reverse processes: bone formation and bone resorption. The action of the agent depends on various mechanisms, including the activation of calcium receptors, localised on osteoblasts and osteoclasts, and on the influence on the OPG/RANKL system. The drug effectively prevents spinal, hip and extravertebral fractures. The agent's anti-fracture efficacy within the spine does not depend on the patient's age, or on base BMD values, or on the concentration of bone metabolism markers. As to the anti-fracture efficacy in the hip, it concerns women with an increased bone fracture risk. Strontium ranelate increases bone mineral density within the lumbar spine and the hip, decreases the concentrations of bone resorption markers, and increases the concentrations of bone formation markers. The drug is administered in a daily 2.0 g oral dose. This paper presents indications to therapy with strontium ranelate, specifying also its side effects and contraindications. We compare the anti-fracture efficacy of strontium ranelate to the efficacy of other agents of proven anti-fracture activity, based on published clinical studies.

[Congenital adrenal hyperplasia due to 21-hydroxylase deficiency--management in adults]

Congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) due to 21-hydroxylase deficiency is one of the most common autosomal recessive hereditary diseases. The impairment of cortisol synthesis leads to excessive stimulation of the adrenal glands by adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), adrenal hyperplasia, and excessive androgen synthesis. The syndrome is characterised by a considerable correlation between the genotype and the phenotype with the type of CYP21A2 gene mutation affecting the severity of 21-hydroxylase deficiency. The clinical manifestations of CAH in adults result from adrenocortical and adrenomedullary insufficiency, hyperandrogenism, and the adverse effects of glucocorticosteroids used for the treatment of the condition. Non-classic CAH may sometimes be asymptomatic. In patients with classic CAH obesity, hyperinsulinaemia, insulin resistance, and hyperleptinaemia are more often seen than in the general population. These abnormalities promote the development of metabolic syndrome and its sequelae, including endothelial dysfunction, and cardiovascular disease. Long-term glucocorticosteroid treatment is also a known risk factor for osteoporosis. Patients with CAH require constant monitoring of biochemical parameters (17a-hydroxyprogesterone and androstenedione), clinical parameters (body mass, waist circumference, blood pressure, glucose, and lipids), and bone mineral density by densitometry. The principal goal of treatment in adults with CAH is to improve quality of life, ensure that they remain fertile, reduce the manifestations of hyperandrogenisation in females, and minimise the adverse effects of glucocorticosteroid treatment. Patients with classic CAH require treatment with glucocorticosteroids and, in cases of salt wasting, also with a mineralocorticosteroid. Radical measures, such as bilateral adrenalectomy, are very rarely needed. Asymptomatic patients with non-classic CAH require monitoring: treatment is not always necessary. Medical care for patients with CAH should be provided by reference centres, as the management of such patients requires collaboration between an endocrinologist, diabetologist, gynaecologist, andrologist, urologist, and psychologist.

Congenital adrenal hyperplasia due to 21-hydroxylase deficiency - management in adults

Congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) due to 21-hydroxylase deficiency is one of the most common autosomal recessive hereditary diseases. The impairment of cortisol synthesis leads to excessive stimulation of the adrenal glands by adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), adrenal hyperplasia, and excessive androgen synthesis. The syndrome is characterised by a considerable correlation between the genotype and the phenotype with the type of CYP21A2 gene mutation affecting the severity of 21-hydroxylase deficiency. The clinical manifestations of CAH in adults result from adrenocortical and adrenomedullary insufficiency, hyperandrogenism, and the adverse effects of glucocorticosteroids used for the treatment of the condition. Non-classic CAH may sometimes be asymptomatic. In patients with classic CAH obesity, hyperinsulinaemia, insulin resistance, and hyperleptinaemia are more often seen than in the general population. These abnormalities promote the development of metabolic syndrome and its sequelae, including endothelial dysfunction, and cardiovascular disease. Long-term glucocorticosteroid treatment is also a known risk factor for osteoporosis. Patients with CAH require constant monitoring of biochemical parameters (17a-hydroxyprogesterone [17-OHP] and androstenedione), clinical parameters (body mass, waist circumference, blood pressure, glucose, and lipids), and bone mineral density by densitometry. The principal goal of treatment in adults with CAH is to improve quality of life, ensure that they remain fertile, reduce the manifestations of hyperandrogenisation in females, and minimise the adverse effects of glucocorticosteroid treatment. Patients with classic CAH require treatment with glucocorticosteroids and, in cases of salt wasting, also with a mineralocorticosteroid. Radical measures, such as bilateral adrenalectomy, are very rarely needed. Asymptomatic patients with non-classic CAH require monitoring: treatment is not always necessary. Medical care for patients with CAH should be provided by reference centres, as the management of such patients requires collaboration between an endocrinologist, diabetologist, gynaecologist, andrologist, urologist, and psychologist.

[The role of bone metabolic markers in qualification for treatment of osteoporosis. Results of POMOST study]

INTRODUCTION

Increased bone turnover markers (BTM) level is consider as independent risk factor of bone fracture. However, it was not used in 10-year probability of bone fracture method (FRAX) proposed by WHO, which helps in qualification of patients for pharmacological treatment of osteoporosis. The aim of the study was to evaluate the usefulness of BTM in qualification for pharmacological treatment of osteoporosis.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The study was performed in 152 subjects (20 men and 132 women) referred to Krajowe Centrum Osteoporozy. One-hundred thirty two of them were qualified for pharmacological treatment and 20 for prophylaxis on the basis of qualitative method. The following BTM were examined in all patients: of bone formation - N-terminal propeptide of procolagen type I (PINP) and N-mid osteocalcin (OC) and of bone resorption - C-terminal cross-linked telopeptide of collagen type I (CTx).

RESULTS

The values over that considered as independent fracture risk (in women only, no data for men) were found in 39 women with PINP, 39 with OC and 41 with CTx. Part of women had decreased serum BTM (10 women 3 BTM and 35 with 1 at least). There were not significant differences in serum BTM depending on the presence of clinical fracture risk factors: osteoporotic fracture in past, osteoporotic hip fracture in parents, chronic treatment with glucocorticosteroids and qualification for pharmacological treatment on the basis of qualitative and FRAX method. There was no significant difference in the presence of fracture risk factors depending on increased or decreased serum BTM.

CONCLUSIONS

Results of the study did not show the practical use of BTM in qualification for pharmacological treatment of osteoporosis.

[Bone metabolism disturbances in anorexia nervosa]

Osteoporosis is a frequent complications of anorexia nervosa (AN). The etiology of osteoporosis in AN is multifactorial. Multiaxial hormonal disturbances and chronic undernutrition cause decrease or the lack of increase of bone mineral density (BMD), expected in adolescence. Both processes result from increased resorption and insufficient bone formation and/or mineralization. Decreased BMD persist in adult patients with a history of AN in the adolescence. There are no guidelines concerning treatment of osteoporosis in AN. The authors present review of the literature concerning bone metabolism in AN.

Quantitative ultrasound in monitoring of skeletal status in adults with end-stage renal disease

The aim of the longitudinal study was to assess skeletal status in 29 subjects (18 males and 11 females) with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) being on regular hemodialysis. Control group consisted of 494 healthy subjects (305 males and 189 females). Skeletal status was evaluated by quantitative ultrasound measurements at the hand phalanges using DBM Sonic 1200 (IGEA, Carpi, Italy), which measures amplitude-dependent speed of sound (Ad-SoS, in m/s), performed three times: at the baseline, six and 12 months later. A precision expressed in root mean square-CV% was 0.72% in males and 0.43% in females. The values of Ad-SoS, T-score and Z-score at the baseline were significantly lower than in controls (p < 0.05). The mean values of Ad-SoS decreased over a period of observation; in the whole group from 1979 +/- 106 m/s to 1928 +/- 105 m/s, p < 0.0001, in males from 2003 +/- 93 m/s to 1949 +/- 111 m/s, p < 0.001 and in females from 1940 +/- 121 m/s to 1894 +/- 108 m/s, p < 0.05. Ad-SoS Z-scores dropped significantly over a period of the study in whole group (-1.14 +/- 1.64 to -2.08 +/- 2.26, p < 0.01), in males (-0.63 +/- 1.44 to -1.74 +/- 2.29, p < 0.0001) and in females nonsignificant decrease was observed. Using the least significant change (LSC) values for skeletal measurement, a decrease in Ad-SoS was noted in 15 subjects (52%). The values of PTH were over a normal limit. In the whole group main factors negatively influencing current Ad-SoS values were duration of dialysis, age and PTH. The skeletal status in subjects with ESRD on hemodialysis was seriously affected, and longitudinal measurements showed its aggravation over a time of the study.

Bone mineral density in patients on home parenteral nutrition: a follow-up study

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

The variations of bone mineral density (BMD) during home parenteral nutrition (HPN) and their relationship with general, life style, primary disease and HPN risk factors were investigated by a follow-up study.

DESIGN

Patients who had BMD assessment in a previous cross-sectional survey underwent a 2nd BMD at femoral neck (FN) and lumbar spine (LS). Data about risk factors were collected by a structured questionnaire. BMD Z-score (number of standard deviations from normal values corrected for sex and age) and the annualized percent BMD change were analysed.

RESULTS

Sixty-five adult patients were enrolled (follow-up: 18.1+/-5.5 months). The mean BMD Z-score significantly increased at the LS (P = 0.040) and remained unchanged at FN. In multiple regression analysis, the variations of the LS Z-score during HPN negatively correlated with the female sex (P = 0.021) and the age at starting HPN (P = 0.022). The analysis of the annualized percent BMD change confirmed the results obtained by the analysis of the Z-score. No factor was associated with BMD variation at FN.

CONCLUSIONS

HPN was not associated with a decrease of BMD in most of the patients; LS BMD Z-score variations were related to general risk factors rather than to HPN factors, showing a negative association with age and female sex.

Changes in bone density during long-term administration of low-molecular-weight heparins or acenocoumarol for secondary prophylaxis of venous thromboembolism

BACKGROUND

Indications for long-term anticoagulation are expanding. Osteoporosis is a complication which can develop after prolonged treatment with unfractionated heparin and is probably multifactorial. Data on osteoporosis associated with low-molecular-weight heparins (LMWH) are contradictory. Vitamin K participates in bone metabolism and since oral anticoagulants antagonize vitamin K, their use may also increase the risk of osteoporosis.

AIM

To assess and compare the effects of long-term secondary venous thromboembolic prophylaxis with LMWH or acenocoumarol on bone structure.

METHODS

We assessed bone mineral density (BMD) by densitometry in 86 patients receiving LMWH or acenocoumarol for 3-24 months. The initial BMD was compared to the final result expressed as the percentage difference. The Z-score was also assessed and defined for individual patients as the number of standard deviations of BMD from its ideal value calculated for age and sex groups.

RESULTS

Excessive decrease in BMD was evidenced, which seemed to relate to the duration as well as type of treatment. At 1 and 2 years of follow-up, the mean decrease in BMD of the femur was 1.8% and 2.6% in patients on acenocoumarol and 3.1 and 4.8% in patients on enoxaparin, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Long-term exposure to treatment and prophylaxis of venous thromboembolism cause a modest but progressive decrease in BMD, more evident in patients on LMWH than on acenocoumarol. It might be advisable to perform densitometry before starting long-term anticoagulation and to repeat it every 12 months, especially in patients with concomitant risk factors for osteoporosis in order to identify patients in need of its prophylaxis.

[Management of hyperthyroidism with radioactive iodine in end-stage renal disease patients undergoing dialysis]

Although, the abnormal thyroid hormone production and metabolism are relatively common, hyperthyroidism is a very unusual condition. The diagnosis may be difficult because of similar signs and symptoms as in uremia. To our knowledge till now only 18 well documented cases have been reported, 8 of them successfully treated with radioactive iodine. We report here the results of radioiodine treatment, performed in 6 patients, 5 with toxic multinodular goiter and one with Graves' disease. Three patients were initially treated with antithyroid drugs, but they were discontinued 20 days before radioiodine treatment. A progressive fall of the thyroid function tests was observed. Of 6 treated patients 3 became euthyroid and 3 developed hypothyroidism.

[Effect of salmon calcitonin on bone mineral density and calcium-phosphate metabolism in chronic hemodialysis patients with secondary hyperparathyroidism]

The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of salmon calcitonin on bone mineral density, parathyroid and thyroid C cells, and calcium-phosphate metabolism in chronic hemodialysis patients with uremic hyperparathyroidism. Forty five patients with serum 1-84 PTH >220 pg/ml were divided into 2 groups: group I (n = 25), treated with intranasal salmon calcitonin (200 IU, thrice a week) and control group II (n = 20). Patients received calcium carbonate (up to 6 g/d) alone or with aluminum hydroxide (up to 3 g/d) as phosphate binders; dialysate calcium was 1.75-2 mmol/l. The observation period was 12 months. The following parameters were measured: bone mineral density (BMD) with dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry in: lumbar spine (L2-L4), femoral neck and total body, before and after the study; serum endogenous calcitonin, before and after the study; serum PTH, alkaline phosphatase and total hydroxyproline, before and after 1, 3, 6, and 12 months; and serum calcium and phosphate monthly. During 12 months of the study, a substantial reduction in BMD was observed in all examined regions in group II (-2.8 +/- 2.1%; p<0.01 in L2-L4, -2.4 +/- 2.0%; p<0.01 in femoral neck, and -1.9 +/- 1.4%; p<0.01 in total body), whereas in group I a slight increase of bone mineral was noted, however insignificant. The inhibition of bone resorption was accompanied by a marked decrease in serum hydroxyproline. No changes in parathyroid activity were noted nor any decrease in serum phosphate. The treatment had no influence on serum endogenous calcitonin; initial concentrations were elevated in 47% of patients.

CONCLUSION

Intranasal salmon calcitonin: 1) has no influence on bone mineralization in dialysis patients with uremic hyperparathyroidism; 2) has no significant effect on serum phosphate concentration; 3) provided adequate calcium supplementation doesn't stimulate parathyroid glands; 4) has no influence on endogenous calcitonin secretion.

Endometrial morphology and pituitary-gonadal axis dysfunction in women of reproductive age undergoing chronic haemodialysis--a multicentre study

BACKGROUND

Although disorders of the reproductive system are very common in women undergoing chronic haemodialysis, this issue remains a neglected area. The aim of the study was to evaluate the endometrial morphology and its relationship with pituitary-gonadal axis dysfunction in uraemic women of reproductive age undergoing haemodialysis.

METHODS

The baseline survey with determination of the sex hormones concentrations was performed in 75 haemodialysed women aged 18-45 years. The control group consisted of 33 healthy premenopausal women, aged 18-45 years, with normal menstruation. Then, 40 haemodialysis women, who met the inclusion criteria and gave their informed consent, underwent endometrium suction biopsy.

RESULTS

The pathological endometrial morphology was observed in 80% of biopsied subjects. Atrophia or subatrophia was recognized in almost half of the cases, and proliferative changes in one-third of them. Full atrophia with no mitotic figures was found in all but one non-menstruating woman. In one case, adenocarcinoma in situ was diagnosed and successfully treated. The analysis of the relationship between hormonal status and endometrial morphology revealed the substantial influence of oestradiol on endometrium as a target organ. In women with atrophic changes, oestradiol concentrations were significantly decreased, whereas in the remaining subjects, the increase of serum oestradiol seemed to be accompanied by a shift in endometrium morphology from secretional pattern, through proliferative changes to glandular hyperplasia. Mean serum 17-beta oestradiol was decreased in women with amenorrhoea, and increased in those with eumenorrhoea (P<0.001). Except women with regular menses, mean serum progesterone concentrations were in the lower normal range. Seventy-five percent of the studied population had menstrual disorders, and amenorrhoea constituted almost a half of them.

CONCLUSIONS

Pathological endometrium morphology is very common in uraemic women of reproductive age undergoing haemodialysis, with proliferative changes in one-third and atrophia in almost a quarter of them. The results of the study suggest a preserved normal reactivity of endometrium on circulating oestrogens.

Quantitative ultrasound at hand phalanges in adults with end-stage renal failure

The aim of this study was to assess bone status in 220 subjects with end-stage renal failure (ESRF) (146 men, mean age 53.0 +/- 13.9 years and 74 women, mean age 48.1 +/- 14.3 years). The duration of hemodialysis (durHD) and duration of renal insufficiency (durRI) were, in men, 2.6 +/- 3.8 years and 7.7 +/- 8.0 years, and, in women, 2.8 +/- 3.4 years and 9.1 +/- 7.6 years, respectively. ESRF was caused by the following reasons: chronic glomerulonephritis in 92 patients, diabetes in 52, chronic pyelonephritis in 37, polycystic kidney disease in 19, amyloidosis in 5, hypertension in 4 and unknown cause in 11. The control group consisted of 1615 normal healthy subjects (1216 women, mean age 48.1 +/- 12.1 years and 399 men, mean age 52.9 +/- 14.8 years). Mean age did not differ between patients and controls. Skeletal status was evaluated by quantitative ultrasound (US) measurements at the hand phalanges using DBM 1200 (IGEA, Italy) which measures amplitude-dependent speed of sound (Ad-SoS, m/s). The mean value of Ad-SoS in male patients was 1981 +/- 88 m/s, T-score -l2.03 +/- 1.26, Z-score -0.53 +/- 1.7 and, in female patients, 1967 +/- 96 m/s, -2.23 +/- 1.37, -1.41 +/- 1.56, respectively. Respective values in male controls were 2008 +/- 81 m/s, -1.66 +/- 1.16, -0.01 +/- 0.98 and, in female controls, 2026 +/- 81 m/s, -1.4 +/- 1.15, -0.74 +/- 0.86, and were significantly higher than in male (p < 0.001) and female (p < 0.0000001) patients. A correlation analysis of Ad-SoS with durHD and durRI showed that only in males did both factors significantly influence parameters measured (r = -0.26, p < 0.01). Multiple stepwise regression analysis of Ad-SoS on age, durHD, durRI, weight and height was possible to perform only in males and the following equation was established: Ad-SoS = 2545 m/s - 3.09 x age (years) - 5.68 x durHD (years) - 2.15 x height (cm) - 0.99 x durRI (years), p < 0.000001, r = 0.55, SEE = 69.6. Concluding, in subjects with ESRF treated with hemodialysis, skeletal status assessed with the use of quantitative US was affected.

[Red cell zinc protoporphyrin and its ratio to serum ferritin (ZPP/logSF index) in the detection of iron deficiency in patients with end-stage renal failure on hemodialysis]

Monitoring of iron metabolism has become a major clinical issue in end-stage renal patients undergoing hemodialysis. It can be done at three levels: storage, transport and marrow availability. The objective of that study was to evaluate if a combination of an iron storage marker, serum ferritin (SF) with red cell zinc protoporphyrin (ZPP), a marker of iron availability for erythron, will improve diagnostic value of both tests. In a baseline survey in the population of 186 haemodialysis patients (75% treated with rHuEpo), the following parameters were determined: complete blood count, serum transferrin saturation (TSAT), transferrin, SF, hypochromic red cells % (HRC) and ZPP; the ZPP/logSF ratio was calculated. Iron deficiency was defined as a fernitin saturation--TSAT < 20%. In the second part of the study, 24 pts with SF < 50 ng/ml were given 50 mg of i.v. iron weekly for three months, then the same tests were repeated. During that time the doses of rhuEpo were stable. An increase in hemoglobin of > 1.0 g/dl was considered as a positive response. In 186 studied patients mean SF was 274 +/- 335 ng/ml, and mean ZPP was 68 +/- 44 mumol/mol heme. A ZPP/logSF ratio > or = 40 had the best combination of diagnostic sensitivity and specificity in detecting iron deficiency (76% and 83% vs: 56% and 89% for ZPP > 90 mumol/mol heme, 84% and 34% for HRC > 5%, 68% and 58% for HRC > 10%) and the strong correlations with all other examined parameters were found. The index showed also the highest correlation with the response to the i.v. iron (r = 59; p < 0.01) of the tests evaluated. After three months the values of ZPP/logSF ratio decreased from 80 +/- 105 to 39 +/- 19 (p < 0.01). A significant difference between responders and nonresponders was found for basal ZPP/logSF (p < 0.05) but not for ZPP. Our data suggest that the ZPP/logSF index provides a new valuable parameter for the identification of hemodialysis patients with iron deficiency and the prediction an erythropoietic response to iron supplementation.

[Menstrual disturbances and alternations in hypophyseal gonadal axis in end-stage premenopausal women undergoing hemodialysis: a multi-center study]

The results of the studies of hypophyseal-gonadal axis in dialysis women are not uniform. Mostly the increased serum concentrations of prolactine and pituitary gonadotropins are observed; the data about ovarian secretion are much more scanty and contradictory. The aim of this crossectional study was to assess changes in sexual hormones secretion and their associations with menstrual disturbations in premenopausal women with end-stage renal failure undergoing hemodialysis. Sixty three women from six mazovian dialysis units, aged 18-45 years (mean 35 +/- 7 years) were enrolled into the study. They were divided into four groups according to their menstrual pattern: I--eumenorrhoea (n = 17), II--polymenorrhoea (n = 9), III--oligomenorrhoea (n = 16) i IV--amenorrhoea n = 21). There were no differences between both groups in respect to age, age of menarche, time on hemodialysis, and body mass index. In all subjects gynecological examination was performed and serum prolactin, FSH, LH, estradiol, progesterone and testosterone concentrations were assayed. In 49% women high serum prolactin concentrations were noted (the highest in group IV--1699 +/- 1022 vs 441 +/- 205 microIU/ml in group I; p < 0.05). Mean serum FSH and LH were increased in group IV only (33 +/- 59 and 22 +/- 31 mIU/ml); no significant differences among groups examined were seen. Serum estradiol was increased in groups I-III (95 +/- 46, 72 +/- 33, and 83 +/- 55 pg/ml, respectively) and decreased in group IV (27 +/- 22 pg/ml; p < 0.001 in respect to remaining groups). Mean serum progesterone and testosterone concentrations were normal in all four groups, but serum progesterone was significantly lower in groups II-IV than in group I (p < 0.05). No differences in hormonal status between patients receiving and not receiving rHuEpo were observed. Menstrual disturbances are common (73%) in premenopausal women with end-stage renal failure, with amenorrhea constituting a half of them. Hyperprolactinemia is the most frequently seen alteration in their hormonal profile with the highest concentrations in those with secondary amenorrhea. Increased serum gonadotropins and reduced serum estradiol concentrations are mostly seen in amenorrheic women, whereas in menstruating women serum estradiol is often slightly increased.

Cross-linked C-terminal telopeptide of type I collagen in serum before and after treatment with alfacalcidol and calcium carbonate in early and moderate chronic renal failure

The diagnosis of renal osteodystrophy (RO) in chronic renal failure (CRF) in everyday practice depends on noninvasive methods. Still there is no widely accepted bone resorption marker in RO. The aim of the study was to evaluate the correlation of serum cross-linked C-terminal telopeptide of type I collagen (s-CTx) as the resorption marker with clinical and biochemical data and to evaluate s-CTx level changes after treatment with low dose of alfacalcidol and calcium carbonate. Sixty patients (36 men and 24 women) with creatinine serum level 3.0 +/- 1.5 mg% were examined. The result of s-CTx was normal in 27 patients and increased in 33. There was a significant positive correlation of s-CTx and serum creatinine (p < 0.001), alkaline phosphatase activity (p < 0.05) and duration of CRF (p < 0.05) in men and serum creatinine (p < 0.001) and phosphorus (p < 0.05) in postmenopausal women. Patients with increased s-CTx had significantly higher serum creatinine (p < 0.001), phosphorus (p < 0.01), alkaline phosphatase activity (p < 0.001) and longer duration of CRF (p < 0.001) than patients with normal s-CTx. Next, 25 patients were treated for 6 months with alfacalcidol in dose of 0.25 microg every other day and calcium carbonate in dose of 3.0 microg per day and 25 patients with calcium carbonate only. There was a statistically significant decrease of s-CTx in both groups of patients (p < 0.01). We conclude, that in patients with CRF, s-CTx can be taken as the marker of bone resorption changes after treatment of RO but the value of s-CTx as a diagnostic marker in these patients ought to be evaluated in comparison with histomorphometry.

Prevalence of bone disease in patients on home parenteral nutrition

BACKGROUND & AIMS

The epidemiology of bone disease in home parenteral nutrition (HPN) is unknown. The aim of this paper is to evaluate the prevalence and severity of reduced bone mineral density (BMD) in long-term HPN.

DESIGN

Cross-sectional, multicentre study including patients who within the last 12 months had their BMD assessed by dual-energy-X-ray absorptiometry after at least 6 months of HPN. Data on bone pain and fractures, the primary gastrointestinal diseases, nutritional and rehabilitation status and HPN regimen were reviewed. Both the T-score (no. of SD below mean BMD of young subjects) and the Z-score (no. of SD from normal BMD values corrected for sex and age) were analysed.

RESULTS

A T -score <-1 at any site of assessment was observed in 84% of the 165 patients enrolled (<or= -2.5 in 41%). Bone pain occurred in 35% and bone fracture in 10% of patients. Both T - and Z-scores were significantly lower in symptomatic patients. The frequency of bone disease was higher in post-menopausal women but did not differ among the subgroups of the primary diseases. Stepwise regression analysis showed the lumbar spine Z -score positively associated with the age at starting HPN and the femoral neck Z-score positively associated with the body mass index.

CONCLUSIONS

Bone disease was present in most of the patients on HPN, was of severe degree in one-half of them and symptomatic in one-third. The BMD Z-score appeared predictive of the risk of fracture. The prevalence of bone disease did not differ between the various primary diseases. Age at starting HPN and body mass index appeared to be the major factors associated with BMD Z-scores.

Bone mineral density in adolescent girls with anorexia nervosa--a cross-sectional study

The total body and lumbar spine bone mineral density (BMD) were measured in order to determine the prevalence and possible risk factors of decreased BMD in anorexia nervosa (AN).

SUBJECTS

Sixty-one in-patient girls with DSM III-R AN: age 14.7+/-2.16 years; duration of AN 12.9+/-15.1 months; percentage of ideal body weight 70+/-8.7%; body mass index score -1.62+/-0.79.

METHOD

Total body (in 61 patients) and lumbar spine BMD (in 43 patients), content of lean and fat tissue mass were measured by DXA during the first month of treatment.

RESULTS

Low total body BMD was found in 23.7% and low lumbar spine BMD in 36.6% of patients. There was a negative correlation between BMD and age, age of menarche, degree of undernourishment, duration of AN and amenorrhea. A step-wise linear regression analysis revealed that age of menarche was the most important factor related to BMD in this group.

Prediction of the biomechanical properties of cancellous bone using ultrasound velocity and bone mineral density--an in vitro study

BACKGROUND

Recent experimental studies have suggested that the combination of DXA (dual energy X-ray absorptiometry) and ultrasound (US) measurements could improve the prediction of bone strength. The aim of this study was to investigate the ability of bone density and US velocity, measured by the phalangeal US system, to predict the Young's modulus and strength of cancellous bone.

MATERIAL/METHODS

35 cubes of bovine cancellous bone from the distal radii were prepared using a diamond cutting saw. The US velocity (Speed of Sound - SoS [m/s]) was measured for the three orthogonal directions (proximal-distal - PD; anterior-posterior - AP; medial-lateral - ML) using a DBM Sonic 1200 device (Igea, Italy). Bone mineral density (BMD [g/cm2]) was measured by DXA, as well as the apparent volumetric BMD (v-BMD [g/cm3], as the ratio of BMD to sample thickness). Young's modulus (E[MPa]) and ultimate strength (s[MPa]) were measured in the PD and AP directions by the uniaxial compressive test.

RESULTS

The SoS and biomechanical parameters were significantly higher (p<0.0001) for the PD direction than for horizontal directions. In the PD direction, SoS, BMD and v-BMD correlated significantly with E (r=0.79-0.84, p<0.001) and s (r=0.68-0.80, p<0.01). In the AP direction, SoS and v-BMD correlated significantly (r=0.75-0.77, p<0.05) and BMD correlated almost significantly (r=0.66, p=0.05) with s, whereas their correlations with E were nonsignificant. In the PD direction, the predictive value of SoS or bone density alone for E and s was generally weaker than in the case of the combination of SoS with BMD or v-BMD (63-70% and 46-64% vs. 75-79% and 59-64%, respectively), as was also the case for the AP s (43-60% vs. 66-70%).

CONCLUSIONS

The knowledge of both the US velocity and bone density improves the prediction of the biomechanical properties of cancellous bone.

Imaging of bone in the diagnostics of renal osteodystrophy in children with chronic renal failure

BACKGROUND

In the last two decades considerable advances have been made in the development of imaging tests of the skeletal system. This progress in diagnostic techniques, along with the growing availability of the tests, renders it necessary to review and evaluate their suitability for daily clinical practice. The aim of this article is to compare the results of radiological testing of bone with densitometrical, histomorphometric, and biochemical tests in children with chronic renal failure.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The research involved 31 children with renal failure, of whom 10 were being treated conservatively, 17 by continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CADO), and 4 by hemodialysis (HD). In all these children, radiological examinations of bone were performed in the arms, knees, and hips, along with tests for the serum concentration of parathormone (iPTH), calcium (Ca), and phosphates (P), and for the activity of alkaline phosphatase (AP). Bone density tests by the DXA method and bone biopsies were also performed. On the basis of radiological evaluation, the patients were divided into two groups: Group I, consisting of 14 children with a normal bone structure image, and Group II, consisting of 17 children with bone atrophy.

RESULTS

No statistically significant differences were discovered in the mean values of the tested biochemical parameters between the two groups. The mineral density of total body was normal in 9 of the 14 patients in Group I (64%), and in 7 of 17 (41%) from Group II. The mineral density of total lumbar spine gave similar results. Lower bone density results were obtained in Group II than in Group I, though only in the case of the lumbar spine were the differences statistically significant. In Group I, 5 cases were discovered of chronic osteodystrophy without osteomalacia and hyperparathyroidism (NB), 2 cases of adynamic bone disease (ABD), 4 cases of hyperparathyroidism (HP), 2 cases of moderate hyperparathyroidism (MHP), and one mixed form (Mix); in Group II, there were 6 NBs, 2 ABDs, 1 case of osteomalacia (OM), 5 HPs, and 3 mixed. Radiological examinations revealed one male in Group I with features of prior Perthes's disease, one with fibrous cortical defect, and four cases of valgity of the coxa valga. In Group II, there were 3 children with radiological changes typical for osteomalacia, and in 1 case typical radiological signs of hyperparathyroidism.

CONCLUSIONS

Given the lack of consistency in the results of the tests here presented, an entire panel of available tests should be performed for the comprehensive evaluation of the status of the skeleton.

Bone mineral content and bone mineral density in adolescent girls with anorexia nervosa--a longitudinal study

OBJECTIVE

Total body and lumbar spine bone mineral density (BMD-TB, BMD-L) and total body bone mineral content (BMC-TB) were measured to establish the course of bone demineralization in anorexia nervosa and the clinical factors influencing BMC-TB and BMD changes during treatment.

METHOD

Forty-two girls with DSM III-R anorexia nervosa, age 14.7+/-2.4 years. BMC-TB, BMD-TB and BMD-L were measured in approximately 7-month intervals for 27.8+/-4.1 months using DXA.

RESULTS

Despite nutritional improvement, there was an initial decrease of BMD-L, and no change in BMC-TB and BMD-TB. an increase in BMC-TB and BMD was observed after approx. 21 months from the beginning of the study.

CONCLUSION

The improvement in BMC-TB and BMD was related to changes in nutritional status and was significantly marked in younger patients, with earlier anorexia onset and before menarche.

[Secondary anticoagulant prophylaxis with low molecular heparins or oral anticoagulants and bone mineral density]

A broad spectrum of indications for low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) requires an assessment of side effects especially during prolonged administration. There are common risk factors for venous thromboembolism (VTE) and osteoporosis; heparin is "the drug of choice" for VTE treatment. The aim of our study was to assess the effect of treatment and prophylaxis with LMWH (enoxaparine sodium) and oral anticoagulant (acenocoumarol) for bone structure. Material consists of in- and outpatients. 49 densitometries were performed in 31 patients (in 15 cases double examination). We observed a decrease of bone mineral density in comparison to the initial examination in most cases: mean change of bone mass for examined areas was 3.05%.

[Bone mineral density in children with end-stage renal disease]

The aim of the study was to evaluate bone mineralisation in comparison to chronological age, bone age and high age in children with end-stage renal disease. Fourty-four patients (16 female, 28 male) aged 7-16 years were examined. DXA bone densitometry of total body, bone age evaluated by Greulich-Pyle method and high age were performed in all patients. In our patients bone, and high age were significantly decreased in comparison to chronological age. In contrast mean value of Z-score TG BMD bone and high age compared to mean value of Z-score TB BMD for chronological age were increased significantly. We conclude that bone mineralisation should be compared with or high age not to chronological age in patients with end-stage renal disease.

[Risk factors of adynamic bone disease in children with end-stage renal failure: personal experience]

The aim of the study was to estimate predisposing factors which can cause adynamic bone disease (ABD) and biochemical markers, bone densitometry results, bone histomorphometry in 17 children with this from of the renal osteodystrophy. Half of these of patients were treated with alphacalcidol pulses. In 47% of patients hypercalcemic episodes were noted, 76% had PTH level < 50 pg/ml. Four patients with osteoporosis (low bone volume at histological analysis) were distinguished. Two of them were treated with corticosteroids, 1 was immobilized for a long time.

[Hormonal replacement therapy and lipid metabolism in women on hemodialysis with secondary to uremia estrogen deficiency]

It has been reported that postmenopausal women taking hormonal replacement therapy (HRT) are at reduced risk for cardiovascular disease mainly because of favorable changes in serum LDL- and HDL-cholesterol. However, the therapy is also known to increase hepatic triglyceride production. Cardiovascular events are the leading cause of death in patients on dialysis and lipid abnormalities are common. The aim of the study was to evaluate the influence of HRT on lipid metabolism in premenopausal women undergoing hemodialysis with premature oestrogen withdrawal. 25 hemodialyzed women, aged 37 +/- 9 years (19-44 years) with serum 17 beta-estradiol < 30 pg/ml were divided into: group I (n = 13) treated with transdermal HRT (estradiol with cyclic norethisterone acetate--Estracomb TTS 50/0.25; Novartis), and control group II (n = 12). Before the treatment serum LDL-cholesterol concentrations were increased in 24% and serum triglycerides in 40% of patients, whereas HDL-cholesterol was decreased in 72% of patients. During one year, in group I a noticeable, 15% increase in serum HDL-cholesterol was observed from 0.90 +/- 0.23 to 1.04 +/- 0.19 mmol/l (34.8 +/- 8.8 to 39.8 +/- 7.4 mg/100 ml; p < 0.01). It was parallel to the increase in serum 17 beta-estradiol concentrations (from 20.5 +/- 8.91 to 50.3 +/- 17.20 pg/ml; p < 0.01). Serum LDL-cholesterol and triglycerides did not change significantly. In the control group all those values remained unchanged.

CONCLUSIONS

In hemodialysis women with premature estrogen deficiency the transdermal cyclic HRT leads to the clinically important increase in serum HDL-cholesterol without significant changes in serum triglyceride concentrations and could be beneficial in reducing cardiovascular risk in this population.

[The prevention of bone mineral loss with hormonal replacement therapy in premenopausal women on dialysis with estrogen deficiency]

In 25-30% of premenopausal dialysis women low serum estrogen concentrations are observed. This "premature menopause" can significantly contribute to accelerated bone loss. The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of estrogen-gestagen replacement therapy on bone mineral density (BMD) in hemodialysis women with secondary to uremia estrogen deficiency. Among 20 hemodialysis women, aged 18-45 years, with serum 17 beta-estradiol < 30 pg/ml, ten (group I) received transdermal estradiol with cyclic addition of noretisterone acetate (Estracomb TTS 50/0.25), and another ten formed the control group (group II). BMD was evaluated by dual photon x-ray absorptiometry (DEXA, Lunar) in: lumbar spine (L2-L4), 1/3 distal radius and femoral neck, before and after the study. Serum 17 beta-estradiol concentrations were measured before, and after 1, 3, 6 and 12 months of the study. After one year, in group I, in which serum 17 beta-estradiol normalized already during the first month (p < 0.001), an increase of in BMD was noted, although significant only in L2-L4 (p < 0.05). In group II, no change in serum 17 beta-estradiol and mild but insignificant decrease in BMD were observed. However, a comparison of BMD values after 12 months in both groups revealed the marked differences in all studied sites (p < 0.01, p < 0.02, p < 0.05 in L4-L2, distal radius and femoral neck, respectively). The mean serum calcium, phosphate, PTH and alkaline phosphatase activity were similar in both groups and did not change during the study. In premenopausal hemodialysis women with estrogen deficiency, hormonal replacement therapy inhibits bone demineralization and can be useful in prevention of early osteoporosis.

[Hyperkalemic periodic muscle paralysis in primary adrenocortical insufficiency. A case report]

20-years old man was admitted to the hospital because of a few paroxysmal muscle paralysis episodes with pronounced periodic hiperkalemia (maximal 9.8 mmol/l). The first episode was preceded by a very hard physical effort. Primary adrenal insufficiency was recognised on the basis of clinical, humoral and biochemical examinations. There was elevated ACTH and a very low serum level of cortisol and aldosterone. There was slight metabolic acidosis and hiponatremia. The patient was treated with hydrocortisone and fludrocortisone acetate (Cortineff) with positive result. During one year of this therapy his general condition was very good and clinical, humoral and biochemical signs (except of metabolic acidosis) resolved. Neurological symptoms and a very high serum kalium level were the most important signs of primary adrenal insufficiency in the presented case.

The benefits of hormone replacement therapy in pre-menopausal women with oestrogen deficiency on haemodialysis

BACKGROUND

Impaired sexual function is an important cause of depression in uraemic females. Hyperprolactinaemia is frequent, and often associated with decreased serum oestradiol concentration, which can significantly contribute to accelerated bone loss. The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) on sexual function, serum 17beta-oestradiol and prolactin, and bone mineral density (BMD) in pre-menopausal women undergoing haemodialysis.

METHODS

Among 63 women on haemodialysis, aged 18-45 years, 23 with secondary amenorrhoea and serum oestradiol < 30 pg/ml were enrolled into the 1 year study. They were divided into: group I (n = 13) treated with transdermal oestradiol with cyclic addition of noretisterone acetate, and control group II (n = 10). BMD was measured with dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA).

RESULTS

No important changes in sexual function and hormonal profile were observed in the control group, whereas in all women from group I the treatment induced regular menses and a marked improvement of libido and sexual activity. Serum 17beta-oestradiol increased after the first month from 20.5 +/- 11.7 to 46.8 +/- 13.6 pg/ml (P < 0.001) and remained at that level until the end of the study, accompanied by a decrease of serum prolactin (from 1457 +/- 1045 to 691 +/- 116 mIU/ml after 12 months; P < 0.001). In group I, the treatment induced an increase in BMD, although significant only in L2-L4 (P < 0.05), whereas in group II a mild insignificant decrease was observed. However, a comparison of BMD values after 12 months in both groups revealed marked (P < 0.01-P < 0.05) differences at all studied sites.

CONCLUSIONS

Transdermal HRT allows sustained physiological serum oestradiol concentrations in pre-menopausal women with oestrogen deficiency on haemodialysis, with the restoration of regular menses and a marked improvement in their sexual function. The treatment inhibits bone demineralization and can play an important role in the prevention of early osteoporosis in this group of patients.

[Treatment of severe uremic hyperparathyroidism using a method for percutaneous injection of the parathyroid glands with ethanol]

The results of recent studies suggest that uremic patients with large parathyroid hyperplasia are often resistant to active vitamin D3 therapy. Percutaneous ethanol injection has become an interesting option in such cases, although there are only a few publications on that subject. In this work we would like to present our experience with this method. 20 patients with serum iPTH > 400 pg/ml and 1-4 hyperplastic parathyroids (mean volume 1.07) underwent 56 percutaneous ethanol injection sessions under ultrasonographic guidance. In 9 patients a marked (> 75%), long-term (12-24 months) decrease in serum iPTH was achieved; lesser (> 50%) reduction in parathyroid activity persisted for 36-42 months in 5 out of 9 patients observed in this period. In almost every patient a significant reduction of alphacalcidol dose was possible. Our data confirm that percutaneous ethanol injection therapy is a useful and safe adjunct in severe uremic hyperparathyroidism treatment strategy which allows to restore the responsiveness to active vitamin D3 metabolites.

Quantitative ultrasound of phalanges and dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry of forearm and hand in patients with end-stage renal failure treated with dialysis

The aim of the study was to evaluate the usefulness of quantitative ultrasound (QUS) measurement of the proximal phalanges of the hand in patients with end-stage renal failure (ESRF) treated with dialysis, and to compare results of this method with those from dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) of hands and forearms (shaft and ultradistal site). Forty-one men aged 48.1 +/- 11.7 years and 31 women aged 43.1 +/- 12.3 years were examined. Mean QUS values of the hands in men and women with ESRF were significantly lower than the values of the healthy control group. There was a significant positive correlation between QUS and DXA of fingers, hands and also forearms, more pronounced in the shaft than in the ultradistal site. There was no significant difference in the measurements of extremities with or without a fistula. We conclude that QUS measurements are decreased in patients with ESRF treated with dialysis, and they correlate with DXA results. The simplicity of QUS makes it a valuable method in everyday practice. The clinical significance of the QUS results in these patients with ESRF treated with dialysis needs further investigation.

[Screening for renovascular hypertension in own material (1986-1998)]

In 370 patients (pts) with hypertension(HT) in years 1986-1998 (168F + 202M, mean age 46 yrs) screening value of the following tests was evaluated: standard initial angioscintigraphy DTPA 99mTc(SA) in all pts(1-st screening group), significance of clinical suspicion on renovascular hypertension (RVHT) in the group of 74 pts (II-nd screening group). Captopril tests: renin captopril test(RCT) and isotopic captopril test (ICT) were performed in all 370 pts. Classical renal angiography as a reference test for renal artery stenosis (RAS) was performed in all pts suspected for RVHT on the basis of clinical anamnesis and or positive results of captopril tests. Results were as follows. Initial SA being abnormal in the whole group, appeared to be more significant for RAS only in the case of profound one side renal ischemia (GFR lower than 30% of total GFR). Resistance to three antihypertensive drugs, diastolic blood pressure > 120 mmHg and sudden onset of Ht, found in all 74 pts from the II-nd group, were the most significant clinical symptoms of RVHT, because critical RAS was found in 41, that is 55% of pts from the II-nd group. At least one positive CT was found in 37 from 42 pts with critical RAS in angiography with RTC being more sensitive and ICT more specific for hemodynamically significant RAS. The following screening protocol for RVHT was presented and discussed: precise clinical anamnesis followed by angiography or captopril tests according to the severity of clinical symptoms, aim of the study as well as accessibility and laboratory reproducibility of the captopril tests.

[Bone mineral disorders in patients with multiple myeloma]

The aim of the study was to evaluate bone mineralization in the patients with multiple myeloma. The examinations were performed in 49 patients (25 men and 24 women). Seven patients were before chemotherapy and 42 patients were treated with chemotherapy. All of them received prednisone. The bone mineral density was measured by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry with Lunar spine (L2-L4) in AP projection, femoral neck and total body were examined. There was a decrease of bone mineral density in 35 patients in at least one place (T-score more than 2 SD below normal of young healthy persons). There was no correlation between densitometric results and the duration of multiple myeloma, or chemotherapy. The decrease of bone mineral density (expressed es T-score) of lumbar spine (for the patients without spinal degenerative changes) was higher than that of femoral neck (p < 0.05). The decrease of bone mineral density (expressed as T-score) of lumbar spine and femoral neck was more pronounced than that of total body (p < 0.001). Bone densitometry, especially of lumbar spine and femoral neck and less of total body is indicated in the patients with multiple myeloma. The result of this examination may be considered as an independent parameter of disease intensity.

[Effect of calcitonin treatment on bone mineralization in patients with multiple myeloma]

The aim of the study was to evaluate the efficacy of half-year treatment of bone mineral disturbances with calcitonin in the patients with multiple myeloma. Thirty five patients (11 men and 24 women) were examined. They were treated among other with prednisone. Nineteen patients (15 patients with normal bone mineral density of lumbar spine and femoral neck and 4 with low bone mineral density who could not be treated with calcitonin) were treated only with chemotherapy. Other 16 patients with low bone mineral density have received also calcitonin (100 units subcutaneous daily) with vitamin D3 and calcium carbonate. Bone mineral density was evaluated with dual energy X-ray absorptiometry in lumbar spine and femoral neck. After treatment with calcitonin there was more pronounced influence on bone mineral density in lumbar spine and femoral neck than after treatment with chemotherapy only but the difference was not statistically significant. Because the bone mineral disturbances in the patients with multiple myeloma is the big problem there is a need for further and longer evaluation of the treatment of these disturbances.

Bone mineral density evaluated by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry after one-year treatment with calcitriol started in the predialysis phase of chronic renal failure

Thirteen patients in the predialysis phase of chronic renal failure (CRF) were treated with calcitriol (0.25 micrograms/day) and 12 with placebo. After 1 year of study, an increase in bone mineral density in the calcitriol group measured by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry was seen for the femoral neck and lumbar spine when compared to the placebo group (p < 0.001 and p < 0.01, respectively). We conclude that a steady low dose of calcitriol started in the predialysis phase of CRF is beneficial to the patients with CRF. This may be partly due to suppression of secondary hyperparathyroidism.

[Antithrombotic activity of low molecular weight heparin (enoxaparin) during hemodialysis in patients with terminal kidney failure]

The aim of the study was to evaluate the efficacy of low molecular weight heparine (enoxaparin) in comparison to heparin during haemodialysis (HD) in prevention of blood clotting chestry extracorporeal circulation. Enoxaparin (Clexan, Rhone-Poulenc Rorer, in syringes, 20 mg) was evaluated in 42 patients with end stage renal failure treated with HD. In the first part of study heparine and in the second part enoxaparin given into arterial lines were evaluated during 6 following HD with the same type of dialysator. Clotting of extracorporeal circulation and bleeding time from the needle site after HD were evaluated. Activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT) before, after 1 hour of HD and after HD during heparine and enoxaparin were measured. There was advantage of enoxaparin in 23 patients when compared to heparine. It was depended on the reduction of number of injections of enoxaparin when compared to heparine (22 patients have received heparine in 2 or more doses when only 5 patients have received enoxaparin in 2 doses) on the reduction of clotting events in extracorporeal circulation (16 events during heparine treatment -6.3% of all HD and 5 events during enoxaparin treatment -2.0% of all HD), and on the shortening of the bleeding time from the needle site after HD (5.9 +/- 3.4 min. during heparin and 4.5 +/- 1.6 min. during enoxaparin treatment; p < 0.02). Increase of APTT after 1 hour of HD when compared to the value from before HD was significantly lower during enoxaparin than heparine therapy (1.73 +/- 0.4 and 2.55 +/- 0.91 respectively; p < 0.001).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)