Effect of treatment with GnRH agonists on new markers of bone metabolism

To assess the utility of new markers in: monitoring bone turnover during tr eatment with GnRH agonists, alkaline phosphatase (total and bone specific) and urinary N-telopeptides were measured. 16 women; undergoing treatment wi th GnRH agonists for endometriosis or leiomyomas were studied before and 3 months after the onset of treatment. N-telopeptide levels increased signifi cantly (44% of baseline; p < 0.05). Bone specific alkaline phosphatase (BAL P)I measured with a new ELISA-assay, was more elevated (40% of baseline, p = 0.001) than total ALP (15% of baseline, p < 0.001). In conclusion, in est rogen deficiency states, urinary N-telopeptide measurements provide a quant itative measure of bone resoption. In the assessment of bone formation, BAL P determination is move sensitive than total ALP and this may be clinically useful.