Osteoporosis and osteomlacia (continued from metabolic bone disease)

Question 1

What is osteoporosis

Answer 1

A systemic skeletal disease characterised by low bone mass and deterioration of bone tissue, with consequent increase in bone fragility and susceptibility to fracture

Question 2

Where are common sites of fracture for osteoporosis?

Answer 2

Spines, neck of femur, wrist

Question 3

What is a DEXA scan

Answer 3

Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry

Two photon beams generated by machine, allowing soft tissue to be differentiated. l

Question 4

How can bisphosphonates treat osteoporosis

Answer 4

Antiresorptive, inhibits osteoclast activity

Can have GI issues

Question 5

What needs to be taken alongside bisphosphonates

Answer 5

Adcal (calcium and vitamin D supplement).

Question 6

How does teriparatide work

Answer 6

PTH analogue, intermittent PTH release causes increase in osteoblast activation

Question 7

Name some physcial measures taken to reduce risk of fractures in a patient with osteoporosis

Answer 7

OT, Physio, falls clinic, lifestyle changes

Question 8

What is osteogenesis imperfecta?

Answer 8

Syndrome of bone fragility due to mutations in type 1 collagen genes

Question 9

What is osteomalacia

Answer 9

“soft bones” from poor mineralisation if bone