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Iliac crest bone mass and remodelling in acromegaly
Acta Endocrinologica
|May 1, 1981
Summary
Active acromegaly significantly increases bone mass and turnover. Osteoblast activity, particularly mineralization, is elevated and correlates with growth hormone levels in patients with acromegaly.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Bone Biology
- Histomorphometry
Background:
- Acromegaly, a disorder caused by excess growth hormone, affects bone metabolism.
- Understanding bone changes in acromegaly is crucial for managing the condition.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantitatively assess bone mass, turnover, and osteoblast activity in patients with active acromegaly.
- To investigate the relationship between bone parameters and serum growth hormone levels.
Main Methods:
- Quantitative histomorphometry of iliac crest bone biopsies.
- Tetracycline double-labeling for assessing bone formation rates.
- Comparison with age- and sex-matched normal controls.
Main Results:
- Significant increases in cortical (175%) and trabecular (130%) bone mass in acromegaly patients.
- Elevated trabecular resorption and formation surfaces, indicating enhanced bone turnover.
- Increased osteoblast mineralization appositional rate (P < 0.01), positively correlated with serum growth hormone (Rs = 0.69, P < 0.05).
Conclusions:
- Active acromegaly leads to increased bone mass and turnover due to enhanced osteoblast activity.
- Elevated mineralization rates are linked to growth hormone levels, suggesting a direct impact on bone formation.