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Updated: Jul 20, 2026
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Scanning Skeletal Remains for Bone Mineral Density in Forensic Contexts
Published on: January 29, 2018
Bone density, bone turnover, and hormone levels in men over age 75
A M Kenny1, J C Gallagher, K M Prestwood
1Department of Internal Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center and the Veterans Administration Medical Center, Omaha, USA.
Summary
Osteoporosis affects older men, with low bone density common in those over 75. Low testosterone and high parathyroid hormone levels are frequent, correlating with bone loss.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Endocrinology
- Bone Metabolism
Background:
- Osteoporosis is a significant health issue in aging men, contributing to a quarter of all hip fractures.
- The exact causes of bone loss in older men are not fully understood.
- Elevated parathyroid hormone (PTH) and decreased testosterone (T) are suspected factors in male osteoporosis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate bone mineral density (BMD) and hormonal profiles in elderly men.
- To identify potential contributors to bone loss in men over 75.
Main Methods:
- Measured BMD, sex hormones (testosterone), bone turnover markers, and calcium-regulating hormones.
- Studied community-dwelling men aged 75 and older without conditions affecting bone metabolism.
Main Results:
- Men over 75 showed a wide range of BMD, with frequent low values at the femoral neck and trochanteric regions.
- 38% of subjects had below-normal testosterone levels, and 23% had elevated PTH levels.
- Bone resorption markers correlated inversely with BMD; total testosterone showed an inverse correlation with spine BMD, potentially influenced by BMI.
Conclusions:
- Elderly men exhibit variable BMD, often with low values at critical fracture sites.
- Low testosterone and high PTH are prevalent in men over 75.
- Bone mineral density is inversely related to bone resorption markers, suggesting increased bone turnover contributes to bone loss.
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