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Updated: May 4, 2026
Scanning Skeletal Remains for Bone Mineral Density in Forensic Contexts
Published on: January 29, 2018
Identification, prevention, and treatment of children with decreased bone mineral density
Laura Lee Szadek1, Kathleen Scharer1
1University of South Carolina Columbia, SC.
Insights
Childhood osteoporosis, characterized by low bone density and fractures, is influenced by various medical conditions, medications, and lifestyle factors. This review examines diagnosis, causes, and management strategies for pediatric bone health.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Endocrinology
- Bone Metabolism
- Skeletal Health
Background:
- Childhood osteoporosis involves decreased bone mineral density and fractures.
- Bone accretion during youth impacts adult skeletal health and fracture risk.
- Numerous medical conditions, medications, and lifestyle factors contribute to pediatric low bone mass.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review diagnostic criteria for pediatric osteoporosis.
- To explore the etiologies of osteoporosis in children and adolescents.
- To examine prevention and treatment strategies for childhood bone loss.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of diagnostic criteria.
- Analysis of etiological factors (disorders, medications, lifestyle).
- Synthesis of current prevention and treatment approaches.
Main Results:
- Osteoporosis in children is defined by low bone mineral density and fractures.
- Factors contributing to low bone mass include medical conditions, medications, poor diet, and inactivity.
- Limited attention has been given to this condition.
Conclusions:
- Comprehensive understanding of diagnostic criteria is essential.
- Addressing underlying causes and lifestyle factors is key for prevention.
- Effective management strategies are needed for children and adolescents with osteoporosis.
Abstract:
Osteoporosis in children is the presence of decreased bone mineral density in association with a significant fracture history. The amount of bone accretion in childhood and early adulthood is predictive of the risk of osteoporosis and fracture in later adulthood. A myriad of disorders and medications are associated with decreased bone mineral density in childhood. In addition, lifestyle factors including poor dietary habits and minimal physical activity are associated with low bone mass. Because of the limited attention given to childhood osteoporosis, this review was undertaken to examine the diagnostic criteria, etiologies, prevention of and treatment strategies for osteoporosis in children and adolescents.
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