Bone health in childhood cancer survivors, is there really a problem? Pitfalls of assessment, calculating risk and suggested surveillance and management for osteonecrosis and low and very low bone mineral density.

Abstract

Childhood cancer survivors are at increased risk of developing (long-term) skeletal adverse effects, such as osteonecrosis, impaired bone mineral density, and fractures. This paper provides an overview of the current understanding of bone health in these survivors, examining whether it represents a significant concern. It focuses on the challenges of assessing and managing bone health in childhood cancer survivors, highlighting diagnostic pitfalls, methods for accurately identifying those at high risk, and suggested strategies for surveillance and management of osteonecrosis and impaired bone mineral density. The need for improved surveillance strategies, particularly for high-risk survivors, alongside potential prevention and management options, including pharmacological and lifestyle interventions, is emphasised. Given the lack of consensus on optimal prevention and treatment strategies, the paper emphasises the need for further research to optimise care and improve long-term outcomes for childhood cancer survivors with bone health impairments.