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Metabolic bone status in young women with JCA
S Havelka1, P Vavrincová, J Stĕpán
1Institute of Rheumatology, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic.
Acta Universitatis Carolinae. Medica
|January 1, 1994
Summary
Corticosteroid treatment in young women with juvenile chronic arthritis (JCA) is linked to reduced bone density and stiffness, particularly in the spine and calcaneus. This suggests combined disease and treatment effects impact bone health.
Area of Science:
- Rheumatology
- Endocrinology
- Orthopedics
Background:
- Juvenile chronic arthritis (JCA) can affect bone health.
- Corticosteroid therapy is a common treatment for JCA, but its long-term effects on bone are a concern.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare bone health in young women with JCA receiving corticosteroid treatment (CS) versus those not receiving it (NCS).
- To investigate the influence of corticosteroid treatment on bone densitometry and biochemical markers.
Main Methods:
- Clinical, densitometric (DXA, calcaneal ultrasound), and biochemical evaluations were performed on 41 young women with JCA.
- Participants were divided into corticosteroid (CS) and non-corticosteroid (NCS) treatment groups.
- Lifestyle questionnaires and assessments of menarche age and fracture prevalence were included.
Main Results:
- Spine bone mineral density (BMD) was significantly lower in the CS group compared to the NCS group (p=0.05).
- Calcaneal stiffness measurements were significantly lower in the CS group (p=0.001).
- No significant differences were observed in bone-related biochemical markers or fracture prevalence between groups.
Conclusions:
- Corticosteroid treatment in young women with JCA is associated with reduced bone density and stiffness.
- The findings suggest that both JCA disease activity and corticosteroid therapy contribute to impaired bone health in these patients.
- Delayed menarche was noted in the CS group, indicating potential endocrine-related effects.