Clinical and diagnostic features of glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis

Glucocorticoid (GC) treatment is associated with a 50-60% increase in the r isk of hip fracture and a 2-3 fold increase in the risk of vertebral fractu res in adults. Bone loss occurs early in GC treatment, and although some re covery of bone mass occurs with time, complete recovery is unlikely. Patien ts who already have low bone mass are the group that are most susceptible t o fracture. Fracture rates are highest in postmenopausal women, especially those who are not receiving hormone replacement therapy, but are also incre ased in men and premenopausal women. Therapies are now available to prevent GC-induced bone loss and should be employed early in GC treatment.