Journal article

Publication year: 1997

Pages: 7-11

Journal: Aktuelle Rheumatologie

Volume number: 22

Issue number: 1

ISSN: 0341-051X

eISSN: 1438-9940

DOI Link: https://doi.org/10.1055/s-2008-1043621

Publisher: Georg Thieme Verlag

Abstract: 
Secondary osteoporosis is a feature of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Patients suffer from periarticular and also generalised decalcification. The periarticular form develops earlier than the generalised form, but shows some similar pathologic features. It is thought that bone metabolism is accelerated in RA. The aim of the present study was to identify changes in bone metabolism in the early stage of RA (Stad.I, ARA-criteria). Serum levels of osteocalcin, alkaline phosphatase and ostase (bone-alkaline phosphatase) (as markers for bone formation) and hydroxyprolin in 24 hour urine samples (as a marker for bone resorption) were determined in 20 patients and in 26 age-matched controls. Bone density was examined by dual x-ray absorption (DPX) of the lumbar vertebral column and the ward triangle (left femur). The average duration of illness at the onset of the study was 23 months (4-61 months). The patients had not received any steroid medication but some were treated with nonsteroidal antirheumatic drugs (NSAID). The parameters of bone formation and resorption were not significantly different in patients and controls. The bone density was normal in both groups. Our findings show normal bone metabolism in the early stage of RA. However, further studies are required to determine whether osteoporosis can cause significant morbidity and reduces quality of life.

Harvard Citation style: Lange, U., Teichmann, J. and Stracke, H. (1997) Bone metabolism in the early stage of rheumatoid arthritis, Aktuelle Rheumatologie, 22(1), pp. 7-11. https://doi.org/10.1055/s-2008-1043621

APA Citation style: Lange, U., Teichmann, J., & Stracke, H. (1997). Bone metabolism in the early stage of rheumatoid arthritis. Aktuelle Rheumatologie. 22(1), 7-11. https://doi.org/10.1055/s-2008-1043621