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Bone density at multiple skeletal sites in amenorrheic athletes
M L Rencken1, C H Chesnut, B L Drinkwater
1Department of Radiology, University of Washington Medical Center, Seattle, USA.
JAMA
|July 17, 1996
Summary
Amenorrheic athletes experience significant bone loss at multiple skeletal sites compared to eumenorrheic athletes. This bone density reduction, particularly in weight-bearing areas, is linked to the duration of amenorrhea and body weight.
Area of Science:
- Sports Medicine
- Endocrinology
- Orthopedics
Background:
- Amenorrhea, the absence of menstruation, is a concern in female athletes.
- Athletic amenorrhea can be associated with hormonal imbalances and potential health risks.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate generalized bone mass loss in amenorrheic athletes.
- To compare bone mineral density (BMD) in amenorrheic versus eumenorrheic athletes.
Main Methods:
- A case-control study design was employed.
- Bone mineral density (BMD) was measured using dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry.
- Participants included 49 female athletes, categorized as amenorrheic or eumenorrheic based on menstrual history and hormonal levels.
Main Results:
- Amenorrheic athletes exhibited significantly lower BMD at the lumbar spine, femoral neck, trochanter, Ward triangle, intertrochanteric region, femoral shaft, and tibia (P < .01).
- No significant difference in BMD was observed at the fibula.
- Predictors of BMD included body weight, duration of amenorrhea, age of menarche, and age.
Conclusions:
- Extended amenorrhea in athletes is associated with reduced bone density across multiple skeletal sites.
- Impact-loading skeletal sites are particularly susceptible to bone loss.
- Factors like body weight and duration of amenorrhea influence bone density outcomes.