Two Pathological Fractures in a Patient with Chronic Abnormalities in Serum Markers Following Two Liver Transplantations: A Case Report and Literature Review

J Clin Densitom. 2024 Jan-Mar;27(1):101463. doi: 10.1016/j.jocd.2023.101463. Epub 2023 Dec 12.

Abstract

Bone disease is a common complication following liver transplantation, often overlooked in clinical practice. Clinical diagnosis of post-liver transplantation bone disease is challenging, and there have been few case report in the literature. This case report presents a patient who underwent two liver transplant surgeries, exhibited good daily activity, and did not display typical clinical symptoms such as fatigue, bone pain, or spinal deformities associated with prolonged sitting or standing. However, within the fifth year after the second liver transplant, the patient experienced two consecutive fractures. In March 2023, the patient underwent the first bone density test, which revealed osteoporosis. This case highlights the fact that severe fractures after liver transplantation may not necessarily be accompanied by typical symptoms of bone disease. Without timely examination and early prevention, serious consequences may arise. Therefore, this condition requires attention, proactive prevention, early detection, and timely treatment. Additionally, a retrospective analysis of the patient's previous laboratory data revealed persistent abnormalities in serum markers such as hypocalcemia and elevated alkaline phosphatase levels after liver transplantation, emphasizing the importance of monitoring these serum markers.

Keywords: Bone density testing; Bone disease; Fracture; Liver transplantation; Serum Markers.

Publication types

  • Review
  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Biomarkers
  • Bone Density
  • Bone Diseases* / complications
  • Fractures, Bone* / etiology
  • Fractures, Spontaneous* / diagnostic imaging
  • Fractures, Spontaneous* / etiology
  • Humans
  • Liver Transplantation* / adverse effects
  • Retrospective Studies

Substances

  • Biomarkers