Bone Mineral Density Assessment in a Multiple Sclerosis Population (P06.163)

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the prevalence of osteoporosis in a population of patients with Multiple Sclerosis (MS), and to assess the correlation of Bone Mineral Density (BMD) with demographic, clinical and treatment parameters. Background Osteoporosis and low BMD are common in MS. Possible explanations are attributed to factors such as lack of mobility, reduced vitamin D levels, chronic inflammatory state, steroidal and immunomodulatory treatments (DMTs). To date, available data do not allow to comprehensively define the profile of risk factors for osteoporosis in patients with MS. Design/Methods: As part of a project of «good clinical practice» in our centre, to all patients with MS aged ≥35 years, was offered the opportunity to carry out a BMD assessment by Dual energy X-ray Absorptiometry (DXA). Then we have retrospectively analyzed DXA reports, especially considering the diagnosis of osteoporosis, as well as evaluating the possible correlation of BMD with demographic, clinical and treatment parameters. Results: 112 agreed to partecipate, 96 with full available data. Sample mean age was 50.8 ± 7.2 y., 79% females, mean disease duration of 15.4 ± 8.8 y., and mean EDSS score of 3.0 ± 2.0. Osteoporosis was found in 16.7% of the patients; mean vertebral and femoral BMD scores were respectively of .93 ± .13,and .82 ± .14. As expected, patients with either vertebral (p =. 02) or femoral (p =. 025) osteoporosis were older, while those with only femoral osteoporosis had a higher EDSS score (p Conclusions: The prevalence of osteoporosis was comparable with previous reports. As in the general population BMD correlated with age, while femoral BMD strongly correlated with disability. No correlation was found with the use of steroid therapy or DMTs. Disclosure: Dr. Haggiag has nothing to disclose. Dr. Mercurio has nothing to disclose. Dr. Bray has nothing to disclose. Dr. Haggiag has nothing to disclose. Dr. Gasperini has received personal compensation for activities with Merck Serono, Bayer Pharmaceuticals Corporation, Biogen Idec, Sanofi-Aventis Pharmaceuticals, Inc. as a speaker. Dr. Galgani has nothing to disclose.