SURPRISINGLY FEW WOMEN WITH SEVERE OSTEOPOROSIS BY BONE DENSITOMETRY UNDERGO WORKUP FOR SECONDARY CAUSES - A RETROSPECTIVE EVALUATION.

Abstract

137 women were identified with T-score at/below -4. Percent identified as Asian was 26% (higher than local prevalence of 8%). Average BMI was 21.6 kg/m2. Clearly identifiable causes of osteoporosis were noted in 57% (inflammatory disorder, glucocorticoid or antacid exposure, prolonged immobilization and alcoholism were most prevalent). Of the remainder, full work up was performed only in 8%. Endocrine consultation and white race predicted thoroughness of secondary work-up. Fragility fractures, leanness and Asian race were common in women with very low T-score. However, few new causes were identified. Underlying etiology was either immediately evident or inadequately studied, especially in minorities.