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Updated: Jul 15, 2026
07:56
Scanning Skeletal Remains for Bone Mineral Density in Forensic Contexts
Published on: January 29, 2018
Bone mineral density in institutionalised patients with refractory epilepsy
Josephine Swanton1, Robert Simister, Daniel Altmann
1Department of Clinical and Experimental Epilepsy, Institute of Neurology, University College London and National Society for Epilepsy, Chalfont St. Peter, Bucks, United Kingdom.
Seizure
|April 6, 2007
Summary
Refractory epilepsy patients often have low bone mineral density (BMD), especially young males. This bone disease affects 43% of males and 21% of females, highlighting a significant health concern in chronic epilepsy management.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Endocrinology
- Bone Metabolism
Background:
- Refractory epilepsy is associated with various comorbidities.
- Bone disease is an emerging concern in patients with chronic neurological conditions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess bone mineral density (BMD) and bone mineral content (BMC) in institutionalized patients with refractory epilepsy.
- To identify factors associated with reduced BMD and BMC in this population.
Main Methods:
- Bone mineral density (BMD) and bone mineral content (BMC) were measured.
- A cohort of 208 institutionalized patients with refractory epilepsy was studied.
Main Results:
- Osteoporotic range BMD was observed in 43% of males and 21% of females.
- Reduced BMC was noted exclusively in male patients.
- Age and gender were primary factors associated with reduced bone health; no specific antiepileptic drug (AED) was implicated.
Conclusions:
- Bone disease is prevalent in patients with refractory epilepsy, particularly affecting young males.
- The findings underscore the need for monitoring bone health in individuals with chronic epilepsy.
- Further research into the mechanisms and management of epilepsy-related bone disease is warranted.
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