[Features of osteopenic syndrome in diffuse toxic goiter]

To characterize action of thyroid hormones overproduction on bone mineral density.

Pain intensity was graded according to 4-score scale, atraumatic fractures in the past were recorded, mineral bone density (MBD) was studied, TTH and T4 levels and biochemical indices of calcium-phosphorus and bone metabolism were studied, thyroid volume was calculated by J. Brunn (1981) and USI data in 116 patients with diffuse toxic goiter aged 20-65 years compared to 200 healthy controls matched by gender and age.

Pain in bones was registered in 79% examinees (1.8 +/- 0.2 scores, on the average). Atraumatic bone fractures were in 9.5% (8% in the controls). MBD reduction was revealed at densitometry in 71% patients with thyrotoxicosis. It was most frequent and severe (in UD--1.78 +/- 0.1 SD, in MD--2.1 +/- 0.1 SD) in patients with severe disease associated with intensive bone remodeling. Loss of MBD does not depend on DTG duration. Mild thyrotoxicosis had no negative effect on bone tissue. Significant differences between patients with thyrotoxicosis and drug euthyrosis by rate and severity of osteopenia were not observed.

Patients with DTG, especially in severe DTG, demand prophylactic measures concerning osteopenia immediately after diagnosis of thyrotoxicosis.