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Prevention and treatment of glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis in daily dermatologic practice
Hester Vermaat1, Gudula Kirtschig
1Department of Dermatology, Vrije Universiteit Medical Center, Amsterdam, Netherlands. H.Vermaat@vumc.nl
Background:
Systemic glucocorticoids (GCs) are often needed to treat dermatologic patients. The long-term use of GCs, however, is associated with potentially severe side-effects. GC-induced osteoporosis (GIO) is one of the most serious complications, but the risk of the occurrence of GIO seems to be generally underestimated.
Aim:
To provide an update of the recent advances in the prevention of GIO in dermatologic practice.
Methods:
Review of the literature and several European and US guidelines up to August 2007.
Results:
Data regarding the prevention and treatment of GIO are limited and guidelines for the prevention of GIO are not fully consistent.
Conclusion:
The prophylaxis of osteoporosis needs to be started early during treatment with GCs. Calcium and vitamin D supplements in all patients on systemic GCs and bisphosphonates in patients who take GCs for more than 3 months are practical and effective measures.
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