High bone turnover associated with an aluminum-induced impairment of bone mineralization

A hemodialyzed patient showing x-ray and biochemical evidence of apparently pure severe hyperparathyroidism underwent a tetracycline-labeled transiliac bone biopsy. The bone biopsy not only confirmed the hyperparathyroid bone lesions but also revealed an impairment of bone mineralization induced by aluminum. This was demonstrated by a reduction of double-labeled osteoid surfaces, a significant increase in the osteoid seam thickness, and the presence of extensive aluminum deposits in bone. The planned parathyroidectomy was postponed, and deferoxamine (DFO) therapy, 2 g once a week, was initiated. A second bone biopsy, taken 6 months later, showed recovery of normal bone mineralization but the persistence of hyperparathyroid bone lesions. This was associated with a considerable reduction in the extent of aluminum deposits on trabecular bone surfaces. This observation shows that severe and apparently pure hyperparathyroidism can be associated with an impairment of bone mineralization induced by aluminum. This suggests that bone mineralization and aluminum overload should be evaluated in dialyzed patients who are being considered for parathyroidectomy.