Pediatric osteoporosis
Osteoporosis in children is characterized by weakening bone strength that may result in bone pain, fractures, and deformity if left untreated.
Most often, pediatric osteoporosis is related to a child's underlying medical condition, medications taken to treat that condition, and associated risk factors such as immobility.
Some common conditions often associated with pediatric osteoporosis include but are not limited to:
- Allergic/immunological disorders
- Asthma
- Celiac disease
- Cerebral palsy
- Cystic fibrosis
- Eating disorders, such as anorexia nervosa
- Epilepsy
- Inflammatory bowel disease
- Osteogenesis imperfecta
- Rheumatologic disorders
Tests
The following tests are often performed during the clinic visit:
- Bone density scan (DXA/QDR)
- Radiographic evaluations, as needed (for example, spine films, skeletal surveys, bone age radiographs, renal ultrasounds)
- Blood and urine testing
A registered nutritionist also evaluate's the child's dietary and supplemental calcium and vitamin D intake.
Treatments
Treatment is determined on an individual basis. based on the child's diagnosis and presentation. Treatment options might include (but are not limited to):
- Calcium and vitamin D supplementation
- Growth hormone
- Oral bisphosphonate
After our initial assessment, a child who requires an intravenous (IV) infusion of bisphosphonate (for example, pamidronate) therapy will receive this at one of our Manchester offices.
We will make every effort to coordinate an "infusion day" with your child's other outpatient clinic appointments, if needed.