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Forearm BMD as measured by peripheral quantitative computed tomography (pQCT) in a German reference population
S Butz1, C Wüster, C Scheidt-Nave
1Department of Internal Medicine I (Endocrinology and Metabolism), University of Heidelberg, Germany.
Summary
This study provides crucial reference data for forearm bone mineral density (BMD) using peripheral quantitative computed tomography (pQCT). Findings reveal age-related BMD decline, impacting osteoporosis risk assessment.
Area of Science:
- Osteoporosis Research
- Bone Densitometry
- Geriatric Medicine
Background:
- Low bone mineral density (BMD) is a key indicator of osteoporotic fractures.
- Peripheral quantitative computed tomography (pQCT) of the forearm is an emerging bone densitometry technique.
- Validated reference data for pQCT forearm measurements are needed for accurate osteoporosis risk assessment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To establish age- and sex-specific reference data for trabecular and total bone mineral density (BMD) at the distal radius using pQCT.
- To assess the in vivo precision of pQCT measurements.
- To compare radial BMD with dual X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) measurements of the femur and lumbar spine.
Main Methods:
- pQCT measurements of BMD at the distal radius in 179 healthy German adults (91 men, 88 women) aged 20-79 years.
- Calculation of in vivo precision for trabecular and total BMD.
- Correlation analysis with DXA-derived BMD of the femur and lumbar spine.
Main Results:
- Peak bone mineral density (BMD) observed between ages 30-50 years, followed by a linear age-related decline.
- Annual BMD decline rates: 0.85-1.08% in women, 0.54-0.59% in men.
- Radial BMD correlated positively with femoral BMD (DXA), but less so with lumbar spine BMD.
Conclusions:
- The study provides essential reference data for forearm pQCT, improving osteoporosis risk assessment.
- Age and sex are significant factors influencing radial BMD.
- Forearm pQCT measurements show good precision and correlate with other skeletal sites.