Osteoporosis:

• decreased bone matrix components results in fractures with little/no trauma
• common fractures: distal radius (colles), neck of femur & wedge fracture of spinal vertebrae (in thoracic region leads to decreased height & kyphosis/dowager’s hump)
• primary causes = postmenopausal oestrogen deficiency, decreased intake of Ca/vitamin D, excess alcohol & reduced exercise
• can be secondary to: thyrotoxicosis, cushing’s disease, hyperparathyroid & steroid therapy
• X-ray findings: narrow “pencilling” of bones outer layer
• bone densitometry is used to calculate bone density
• treatment: stop smoking, reduce alcohol/caffeine, Ca & vitamin D supplements, bisphosphonates (inhibit bone reabsorption therefore decreasing bone turnover), exercise, hormone replacement therapy (in post menopausal women) & prevent fractures