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Asymmetrical bone loss in a patient with poliomyelitis: an indication for anti-osteoporotic therapy
Jeyakantha Ratnasingam1, Luqman Ibrahim1, Sharmila Paramasivam1
1Endocrine Unit, Department of Medicine, University Malaya Medical Centre, Lembah Pantai, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
Background:
Poliomyelitis survivors suffer from post-myelitic complications including osteoporosis that are often overlooked.
Methods:
We report a case of a 49-year-old lady with history of poliomyelitis with resultant flaccid paralysis of the involved limb.
Results:
The bone mineral density revealed asymmetrical severe osteoporosis in the poliomyelitic limb. Given the risk of falls and fractures, she was commenced on oral bisphosphonate therapy.
Conclusion:
Poliomyelitis is an important acquired risk factor for regional osteoporosis. This condition should be detected and treated in this cohort of patients who are clearly at higher risk of fractures.
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