Primary osteoporosis in children

BMJ Case Rep. 2017 Sep 1:2017:bcr2017220700. doi: 10.1136/bcr-2017-220700.

Abstract

Osteoporosis in childhood is uncommon, and it may be secondary to a spectrum of diverse conditions. Idiopathic juvenile osteoporosis is a primary osteoporosis of unknown aetiology present in previously well children and is a diagnosis of exclusion. We describe a 10-year-old prepubertal boy who presented with back pain of 1-week duration. His spinal X-ray showed generalised loss of vertebral body heights in keeping with osteoporosis. Endocrine and haematological work-up were normal. He was treated with vitamin D supplement and intravenous pamidronate. This case illustrates the general work-up and causes for paediatric osteoporosis, and the management for idiopathic juvenile osteoporosis.

Keywords: calcium and bone; paediatrics.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Administration, Intravenous
  • Back Pain / diagnosis*
  • Back Pain / etiology
  • Bone Density Conservation Agents / therapeutic use
  • Child
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Diphosphonates / administration & dosage
  • Diphosphonates / therapeutic use
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Osteoporosis / classification
  • Osteoporosis / complications
  • Osteoporosis / diagnosis
  • Osteoporosis / diagnostic imaging*
  • Osteoporosis / etiology
  • Pamidronate
  • Radiography / methods
  • Spine / diagnostic imaging
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Vitamin D / administration & dosage
  • Vitamin D / therapeutic use

Substances

  • Bone Density Conservation Agents
  • Diphosphonates
  • Vitamin D
  • Pamidronate

Supplementary concepts

  • Juvenile osteoporosis