Przegląd Dermatologiczny

Abstract

3/2010 vol. 97
Review paper

What should dermatologists know about osteoporosis?

Przegl Dermatol 2010, 97, 212–218
Online publish date: 2010/07/01
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Prolonged glucocorticosteroid therapy is the most common cause of secondary osteoporosis, named glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis. It is estimated that 30 to 50% of chronic glucocorticosteroid users experience vertebral or hip fractures. Prevention of osteoporosis is a very important public health concern. Dermatologists are among the leading prescribers of oral glucocorticosteroids; therefore, this topic is of utmost importance. Dermatological patients treated with glucocorticosteroids for longer than 3 months should receive prophylactic treatment to decrease the risk of bone loss. When glucocorticoids are used for a period shorter than 3 months, current literature does not suggest prophylaxis. All patients starting glucocorticosteroid treatment should be given instructions on general measures for prevention of bone loss.
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