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Bone Health in Childhood: Usefulness of Biochemical Biomarkers

E Eapen1, V Grey2, A Don-Wauchope1

  • 1Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine, McMaster University , Hamilton, ON, Canada.

EJIFCC
|September 30, 2016
PubMed

Insights

Bone biomarkers reflect skeletal growth and turnover. This review discusses serum bone markers for assessing bone health and managing metabolic bone disease.

Area of Science:

  • Orthopedics and Endocrinology
  • Biochemistry
  • Human Physiology

Background:

  • Skeletal development continues from embryonic life through early adulthood, influencing peak bone mass and later skeletal fragility.
  • Bone remodeling, involving formation by osteoblasts and resorption by osteoclasts, persists throughout life.
  • Children exhibit higher bone biomarker concentrations due to rapid skeletal growth and bone turnover.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review serum bone markers used in assessing bone health.
  • To discuss factors influencing the utility of these bone markers.
  • To highlight the importance of biochemical assessment in metabolic bone disease management.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of studies on bone biomarkers.
  • Analysis of factors affecting serum bone marker concentrations.
  • Discussion of clinical applications in metabolic bone disease.

Main Results:

  • Serum bone markers reflect bone formation and resorption processes.
  • Children and adolescents show higher bone turnover markers compared to adults.
  • Bone biomarkers are crucial for diagnosing and managing metabolic bone disorders.

Conclusions:

  • Serum bone markers provide valuable insights into bone health and turnover.
  • Understanding factors influencing bone markers is essential for accurate interpretation.
  • Biochemical assessment of bone turnover aids in the management of skeletal diseases.

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