[Multiple vertebral fractures after denosumab discontinuation]
1louise.tjelum@regionh.dk.
Ugeskrift for Laeger
|November 9, 2018
Summary
Discontinuing denosumab may increase the risk of multiple vertebral fractures, especially in women with prior fractures. Alternative treatments should be considered when stopping denosumab to mitigate these risks.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Orthopedics
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Denosumab is a monoclonal antibody used to treat osteoporosis and prevent fractures.
- Discontinuation of denosumab has been anecdotally linked to rebound bone loss and increased fracture risk.
Observation:
- This case report details two postmenopausal women with a history of fragility fractures.
- Both patients experienced multiple vertebral fractures after discontinuing denosumab therapy.
Findings:
- The patients developed severe vertebral fractures following denosumab cessation.
- One patient also presented with symptomatic hypoparathyroid hypercalcemia six months post-discontinuation.
Implications:
- Denosumab discontinuation may precipitate a rapid decline in bone mineral density, leading to fractures.
- Healthcare providers should consider alternative therapeutic strategies before discontinuing denosumab to prevent adverse skeletal events.
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