Endocrine disorders and osteoporosis

Endocrine disorders constitute the most frequent cause of secondary osteoporosis in men and women. Because endocrine diseases are common (e.g., diabetes mellitus, hyperparathyroidism, and hyperthyroidism), they should be considered in the differential diagnosis and management of osteopenia. The pathogenesis of hormone-induced bone loss involves several components of the bone remodeling cycle and in many cases is not fully elucidated. Identifying an underlying cause and correcting hypo- or hyperfunction of an endocrine gland, however, can often lead to an increase in bone mineral density. This review focuses on recent studies on hormonal disorders that affect the skeleton. In particular, diabetes mellitus, hyperparathyroidism, and hyperthyroidism are considered within the context of both accelerated bone loss and fracture risk.