Related Experiment Videos
Antacid-induced osteomalacia: a case report with a histomorphometric analysis
M Kassem1, E F Eriksen, F Melsen
1Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Aarhus Amtssygehus, Denmark.
Journal of Internal Medicine
|March 1, 1991
Summary
Excessive antacid use caused severe osteomalacia in a patient due to aluminum and phosphate malabsorption. Symptoms resolved after discontinuing antacids and initiating vitamin D treatment.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Nephrology
- Bone Metabolism
Background:
- Aluminum-containing antacids are widely used for gastrointestinal issues.
- Prolonged ingestion can lead to toxic accumulation of aluminum.
- Aluminum toxicity is implicated in various bone diseases, including osteomalacia.
Observation:
- A 75-year-old woman presented with severe osteomalacia.
- Biochemical tests showed phosphate malabsorption and elevated bone turnover markers.
- A bone scan indicated widespread increased radiotracer uptake.
Findings:
- The patient had normal calcium, parathyroid hormone, and 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels.
- Bone biopsy confirmed severe osteomalacia.
- Discontinuation of antacids and vitamin D therapy led to normalization of all parameters within one year.
Implications:
- This case highlights the risk of severe bone disease from chronic aluminum antacid use.
- Phosphate depletion and aluminum deposition are key in pathogenesis.
- Management involves cessation of the offending agent and appropriate supplementation.