THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN CONNECTIVE TISSUE DYSPLASIA AND OSTEOPENIA IN CHILDREN

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Endocrinology
• Musculoskeletal Health
• Nutritional Science

Background:

• Musculoskeletal disorders are prevalent in children, with reduced bone mineral density (BMD) and undifferentiated connective tissue dysplasia (UCTD) being significant concerns.
• Trace element imbalances may play a role in the pathogenesis of both decreased BMD and UCTD.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the frequency and pathogenetic links between UCTD and osteopenic syndrome in children.
• To analyze the relationship between UCTD, osteopenic syndrome, and trace element status.

Main Methods:

• A cohort of 375 children (ages 3-16) was assessed for UCTD using established criteria.
• Dietary intake of calcium and vitamin D, serum levels of 25(OH)D, calcium, and magnesium were measured.
• Calcaneal densitometry was performed, and statistical analysis utilized the chi-squared (χ²) criterion.

Main Results:

• A strong association was found between osteopenic syndrome and UCTD (χ²=37.580, p<0.001).
• Children with reduced BMD showed significantly higher rates of insufficient vitamin D (p=0.004) and calcium intake (p=0.005).
• Reduced magnesium levels were more common in children with UCTD, with combined osteopenic syndrome and UCTD showing the highest deficiency rates for all three parameters.

Conclusions:

• Children with combined decreased BMD and UCTD exhibit distinct patterns of vitamin D, calcium, and magnesium metabolism.
• These metabolic features may act as additional risk factors for disease progression and complications.
• Comprehensive prevention strategies focusing on these micronutrients, with regular monitoring, are recommended for correction.