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Separate assessment of forearm cortical and trabecular bone density from standard densitometry data
M A Boyanov1, P R Popivanov, C Roux
1Endocrinology Clinic, Medical University of Sofia, Alexandrov's Hospital, Sofia, Bulgaria. boyanov@sun.medun.acad.bg
Annals of Medicine
|October 30, 2001
Summary
This study presents a new method to assess cortical and trabecular bone density using standard densitometry. The findings reveal age-related bone loss patterns and menopause effects, aiding osteoporosis diagnosis.
Area of Science:
- Bone Densitometry
- Osteoporosis Research
- Menopause Studies
Background:
- Cortical and trabecular bone, distinct components, have mineral densities not directly measurable by standard areal bone densitometry.
- Existing methods lack the ability to differentiate the density of these two bone types.
Purpose of the Study:
- To introduce a novel method for assessing pure radial cortical and trabecular bone density.
- To analyze age-related changes and menopausal effects on bone density using standard densitometry data.
Main Methods:
- Included 418 healthy females (20-83 years) and 64 age-matched females with early menopause.
- Forearm bone density measured via single X-ray absorptiometry (SXA).
- Calculated separate bone densities for cortical and trabecular bone, building age-adjusted curves.
Main Results:
- Peak bone density observed between 30-34 years (cortical: 0.561 g/cm², trabecular: 0.281 g/cm²).
- Significant bone loss by 70-74 years: 26% cortical, 44% trabecular.
- Identified accelerated trabecular bone reduction around ages 45, 55, and 65, reflecting menopausal changes.
Conclusions:
- The developed method can differentiate between cortical and trabecular osteopenia.
- It may assist in assessing osteoporosis types, guiding therapy selection, and monitoring treatment response.
- Model's ability to discriminate natural versus premature menopause was moderate.