Bone mineral density in premenopausal women with major depression

The association between depression and bone metabolism: a US nationally representative cross-sectional study

This population-based study investigated the association between depression and bone mineral density (BMD), fractures, and osteoporosis in the US population. We found that participants with depression had lower BMD and were more likely to have fractures and osteoporosis.

BACKGROUND

Depression, fractures, and osteoporosis are common in middle-aged and elderly, but their associations remained unclear.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the association between depression and bone mineral density (BMD), osteoporosis, and fracture in a middle-aged and elderly US population.

METHODS

A nationally representative cross-sectional study used the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) datasets. Depression was assessed and stratified using the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9). The multiple logistic regression models and the logistic binary regression models were used to analyze the association between depression and BMD, fractures, and osteoporosis. Gender, age, race, educational level, poverty ratio, body mass index (BMI), smoke, alcohol use, physical activity, and diabetes were included as covariates. Subgroup analysis was also conducted on gender, age, race, and education level.

RESULTS

In total, 9766 participants were included after a series of exclusions, and 4179 (42.79%) had at least mild depressive symptoms. Compared to the participants without depression, those with depression had a lower total femur, femoral neck, and total spine BMD after adjusting multiple covariates. The multivariable-adjusted logistic binary regression models demonstrated that participants with depression more likely have hip fractures (OR = 1.518, 95% CI: 1.377-2.703, P = 0.000), spine fractures (OR = 1.311, 95% CI: 1.022-1.678, P = 0.030), and osteoporosis (OR = 1.621, 95% CI: 1.388-1.890, P = 0.000). Subgroup analysis revealed that depressed participants who were males, non-Hispanic White, ≤ 70 years, and not highly educated had a lower BMD and easily had osteoporosis.

CONCLUSION

Depression was associated with lower BMD, particularly in the spine, males, Hispanic-White, and not highly educated populations. Moreover, people with depression were more likely to have fractures and osteoporosis.

Association of bone mineral density and depression in different bone sites and ages: A meta-analysis

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is considered as a risk factor for osteoporosis. Bone mineral density (BMD), as the main tool for diagnosing osteoporosis, has been reported to have correlation with MDD in different cohorts. However, the information in causative link and etiology determinants of osteoporosis in MDD is still under investigation. The results are unclear. Thus, we perform a meta-analysis to evaluate the association between altered BMD and MDD. We searched the electronic databases to find studies examining BMD in patients with MDD. Finally, 26 published studies were included in our meta-analysis up from January 1990 to January 2019. All the data were pooled analysis using RevMan software. The association between altered BMD and MDD was assessed by std. mean difference (STD) and their 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for each study. Twenty-six studies were included in this meta-analysis. Pooled results showed a significant lower BMD in spine (STD=0.51, 95% CI=0.30-0.71, p < .00001), total hip (STD=0.41, 95% CI=0.16 to 0.66, p = .001), and femoral neck (STD=0.93, 95% CI=0.32 to 1.55, p = .003) in MDD compared with controls. After stratification by mean age, gender, recruitment, diagnostic criteria, and measuring methods, no significant difference of BMD was found in bone mineral density of male total hip between MDD and controls(p > .05). Moreover, adults appear to have lower BMD than old cohorts. This is an updated meta-analysis to reveal the association of bone mineral density and depression, suggesting that BMD appears to be more susceptible to occur in spine, total hip, femoral neck in MDD, especially for adults and women. Our meta-analysis may provide clinicians and public health administrators with an important screening tool for assessing depression and avoiding osteoporosis in adult subjects and female.

Effect of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors on markers of bone loss

Several preclinical and clinical studies show that selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI's) are associated with bone loss and an increase in fracture risk, not many reports on their effect on bone turnover markers. This cross-sectional study evaluated the effect of SSRIs treatment on bone turnover markers in Indian population for the first time. Inclusion criteria were subjects of either sex and age 18-45 years undergoing treatment with an SSRI for at least 3 months, regardless of the indication. The results were compared with age-matched healthy controls. A total of 141 subjects were screened out of which 85 were enrolled, 44 in treatment and 41 in the control group. Serum Procollagen Type 1 Amino Terminal Propeptide (P1NP) levels were decreased in patients on SSRI treatment whereas no change was observed in the beta-C-terminal telopeptide (β-CTX) and receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa-Β ligand (RANKL) levels suggesting that these drugs can reduce bone formation but not resorption. Patients on SSRI treatment also showed reduced pCREB levels indicating that reduced bone formation is possibly through the gut mediated pathway. Our study suggests that SSRIs treatment at therapeutic doses may have a deteriorating effect on bone requiring caution in patients with additional risk factors.

The Relationship of Disordered Eating Attitudes with Stress Level, Bone Turnover Markers, and Bone Mineral Density in Obese Adolescents

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effect of stress caused by disordered eating attitudes on bone health in obese adolescents.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study comprising 80 obese adolescents was performed from November 2013 to September 2014. Twenty-four-hour urinary free cortisol levels were measured as a biological marker of stress. Bone turnover was evaluated using bone-specific alkaline phosphatase, serum osteocalcin, and urinary N-telopeptide concentrations. Bone mineral density was measured using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. The Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire, Dutch Eating Behavior Questionnaire, Children's Depression Inventory, and the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory for Children were used to assess eating disorders, depression, and anxiety. Psychiatric examinations were performed for binge eating disorders.

RESULTS

In the Pearson's correlation test, a positive correlation was found between the 24-hour urinary cortisol level and Dutch Eating Behavior Questionnaire total and restrained eating subscale scores (p<0.05 for both). In linear regression analyses, the Dutch Eating Behavior Questionnaire total and restrained eating subscale scores were found to be significant contributors for urinary cortisol level (β=1.008, p=0.035; β=2.296, p=0.014, respectively). The femoral neck areal bone mineral density was found to be significantly higher in subjects who had binge eating disorder compared with those without binge eating disorder (p=0.049).

CONCLUSION

Despite the lack of apparent effects on bone turnover and bone mineral density in our obese adolescents at the time of the study, our results suggest that disordered eating attitudes, and especially restrained eating attitudes, might be a source of stress. Therefore, studies in this area should continue.

Bone density and depressive disorder: a meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to evaluate the evidence of low bone mineral density (BMD) in depression. Low BMD is a major risk factor for osteoporotic fractures and frailty.

METHODS

The searched database was Pubmed, Meta-analysis included human studies in men and women fulfilling the following criteria: (1) assessment of BMD in the lumbar spine, the femur or the total hip; (2) comparison of BMD between depressed individuals and the healthy control group; (3) measurement of BMD using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA); and (4) data on the mean, standard deviation, or standard error of BMD.

RESULTS

Twenty-one studies were identified, encompassing 1842 depressed and 17,401 nondepressed individuals. Significant negative composite weighted mean effect sizes were identified for the lumbar spine (d = -0.15, 95%CL -0.22 to -0.08), femur (d = -0.34, 95%CL -0.64 to -0.05), and total hip (d = -0.14, 95%CL -0.23 to -0.05) indicating low BMD in depression. Examining men and women shows low bone density in the lumbar spine and femur in women and low bone density in the hip in men. The differences between men and women with MDD and the comparison group tended to be higher when examined by expert interviewers. Low bone density was found in all age groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Bone mineral density is reduced in patients with depressive disorders. The studies provide little evidence for potential relevant mediating factors.

Vitamin D Status, Bone Mineral Density and Mental Health in Young Australian Women: The Safe-D Study

Background.

Vitamin D deficiency has been associated with both poor bone health and mental ill-health. More recently, a number of studies have found individuals with depressive symptoms tend to have reduced bone mineral density. To explore the interrelationships between vitamin D status, bone mineral density and mental-ill health we are assessing a range of clinical, behavioural and lifestyle factors in young women (Part A of the Safe-D study).

Design and methods.

Part A of the Safe-D study is a cross-sectional study aiming to recruit 468 young females aged 16-25 years living in Victoria, Australia, through Facebook advertising. Participants are required to complete an extensive, online questionnaire, wear an ultra-violet dosimeter for 14 consecutive days and attend a study site visit. Outcome measures include areal bone mineral measures at the lumbar spine, total hip and whole body, as well as soft tissue composition using dual energy x-ray absorptiometry. Trabecular and cortical volumetric bone density at the tibia is measured using peripheral quantitative computed tomography. Other tests include serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D, serum biochemistry and a range of health markers. Details of mood disorder/s and depressive and anxiety symptoms are obtained by self-report. Cutaneous melanin density is measured by spectrophotometry.

Expected impact.

The findings of this cross-sectional study will have implications for health promotion in young women and for clinical care of those with vitamin D deficiency and/or mental ill-health. Optimising both vitamin D status and mental health may protect against poor bone health and fractures in later life.

Endocrinology of bone/brain crosstalk

Bone metabolism is regulated by the action of two skeletal cells: osteoblasts and osteoclasts. This process is controlled by many genetic, hormonal and lifestyle factors, but today more and more studies have allowed us to identify a neuronal regulation system termed 'bone-brain crosstalk', which highlights a direct relationship between bone tissue and the nervous system. The first documentation of an anatomic relationship between nerves and bone was made via a wood cut by Charles Estienne in Paris in 1545. His diagram demonstrated nerves entering and leaving the bones of a skeleton. Later, several studies were conducted on bone innervation and, as of today, many observations on the regulation of bone remodeling by neurons and neuropeptides that reside in the CNS have created a new research field, that is, neuroskeletal research.

Higher glucocorticoid secretion in the physiological range is associated with lower bone strength at the proximal radius in healthy children: importance of protein intake adjustment

Whether higher production of glucocorticoids (GCs) within the physiological range may already be affecting bone status in healthy children is unknown. Because dietary protein intake affects both bone and GCs, we examined the association of urinary measures of glucocorticoid status and cortical bone in healthy non-obese children, after particularly controlling for protein intake. Proximal forearm bone parameters were measured by peripheral quantitative computed tomography (pQCT). Subjects studied (n = 175, 87 males, aged 6 to 18 years) had two 24-hour urine samples collected: the first sample at 1 year before bone measurement, and the second sample at the time of bone measurement. Major urinary GC metabolites were measured by mass spectrometry and summed to assess daily adrenal GC secretion (∑C21). Urinary free cortisol (UFF) and cortisone (UFE) were summed to assess potentially bioactive free GCs (UFF + UFE). After controlling for several covariates and especially urinary nitrogen (the biomarker of protein intake) cortisol secretion ∑C21 was inversely associated with all analyzed pQCT measures of bone quality. ∑C21 also predicted a higher endosteal and lower periosteal circumference, explaining both a smaller cortical area and (together with lower BMD) a lower strength-strain-index (SSI). UFF + UFE, UFE itself, and a urinary metabolite-estimate of 11beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type1 (11beta-HSD1) activity showed corresponding reciprocal associations (p < 0.05) with BMD and bone mineral content, but not with SSI and bone geometry variables. In conclusion, higher GC levels, even within the physiological range, appear to exert negative influences on bone modeling and remodeling already during growth. Our physiological data also suggest a relevant role of cortisone as the direct source for intracrine-generated cortisol by bone cell 11beta-HSD1.

Bone mineral density, quantitative ultrasound parameters and bone metabolism in postmenopausal women with depression

Low bone mineral density, which increases the risk of stress fragility fractures, is a frequent, often persistent finding in patients with major depressive disorder (MDD). The clinical association between major depressive disorder and osteopenia is still unclear, although several factors are associated with a loss of bone mass. The aim of our study, therefore, was to evaluate bone mineral density and bone metabolism in patients with MDD. Bone mineral density was evaluated in fifty postmenopausal women with MDD, and in 50 matched postmenopausal control women by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry of the lumbar spine and femur, and by ultrasonography of the calcaneus and phalanges. Serum levels of 25-hydroxivitamin D, parathyroid hormone, Osteoprotegerin/Receptor Activator for Nuclear Factor κB Ligand ratio, bone turnover markers, serum and urinary cortisol were examined. Bone mineral density of the lumbar spine (BMD: 0.72 ± 0.06 vs. 0.82 ± 0.09 g/cm(2), p < 0.001), femoral neck (BMD: 0.58 ± 0.04 vs. 0.71 ± 0.07 g/cm(2), p < 0.001) and total femur (BMD 0.66 ± 0.09 vs. 0.54 ± 0.06 g/cm(2), p < 0.001); and ultrasound parameters at calcaneus (SI: 81.30 ± 6.10 vs. 93.80 ± 7.10, p < 0.001) and phalanges (AD-SOS: 1915.00 ± 37.70 vs. 2020.88 ± 39.46, p < 0.001; BTT : 1.30 ± 0.8 vs. 1.45 ± 0.9, p < 0.001) are significantly lower in patients with MDD compared with controls. Moreover bone turnover markers, parathyroid hormone levels and Receptor Activator for Nuclear Factor κB Ligand are significantly higher in MDD patients compared with controls, while serum levels of 25-hydroxivitamin D and osteoprotegerin are significantly lower. There are no differences in urinary excretion and serum cortisol between groups. Postmenopausal women with depressive disorder have an elevated risk for osteoporosis. Our data suggest that a high level of parathyroid hormone may play a role in the pathogenetic process underlying osteopenia in these patients.

Bone mineral density and bone metabolism in patients with major depressive disorder without somatic comorbidities

BACKGROUND

Major depressive disorder (MDD) has been linked with accelerated bone loss leading to the development of low bone mineral density (BMD). Several mechanisms have been discussed as causative factors, e.g. lifestyle, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) intake, or the influence of proinflammatory cytokines.

METHODS

In a cross-sectional study of in-patients with a current episode of MDD, without somatic comorbidities, we determined various parameters of bone metabolism, inflammatory parameters and parameters of depression. BMD was measured by dual x-ray absorptiometry.

RESULTS

Of 50 patients, only one had low BMD in any of the measure sites. Body mass index (BMI) correlated positively with Z-scores. 83.3% of the examined patients had elevated osteoprotegerin (OPG) levels. SSRI intake did not have an effect on BMD. BMD in the femoral neck was significantly lower in smokers. We also found a positive correlation between the level of physical activity and osteocalcin levels.

CONCLUSIONS

In our sample, young to middle-aged, somatically healthy, and acutely depressed patients with a history of MDD showed no reduction of BMD. This could be due to compensatory mechanisms, as suggested by elevated OPG levels. Physical activity and high BMI could also have served as protective factors. Still, as patients with MDD often suffer from comorbidities or take medication with a negative effect on bone, this population should be appreciated as a high-risk group for the development of osteopenia and osteoporosis.

Do premenopausal women with major depression have low bone mineral density? A 36-month prospective study

Background

An inverse relationship between major depressive disorder (MDD) and bone mineral density (BMD) has been suggested, but prospective evaluation in premenopausal women is lacking.

Methods

Participants of this prospective study were 21 to 45 year-old premenopausal women with MDD (n = 92) and healthy controls (n = 44). We measured BMD at the anteroposterior lumbar spine, femoral neck, total hip, mid-distal radius, trochanter, and Ward's triangle, as well as serum intact parathyroid hormone (iPTH), ionized calcium, plasma adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), serum cortisol, and 24-hour urinary-free cortisol levels at 0, 6, 12, 24, and 36 months. 25-hydroxyvitamin D was measured at baseline.

Results

At baseline, BMD tended to be lower in women with MDD compared to controls and BMD remained stable over time in both groups. At baseline, 6, 12, and 24 months intact PTH levels were significantly higher in women with MDD vs. controls. At baseline, ionized calcium and 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels were significantly lower in women with MDD compared to controls. At baseline and 12 months, bone-specific alkaline phosphatase, a marker of bone formation, was significantly higher in women with MDD vs. controls. Plasma ACTH was also higher in women with MDD at baseline and 6 months. Serum osteocalcin, urinary N-telopeptide, serum cortisol, and urinary free cortisol levels were not different between the two groups throughout the study.

Conclusion

Women with MDD tended to have lower BMD than controls over time. Larger and longer studies are necessary to extend these observations with the possibility of prophylactic therapy for osteoporosis.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT 00006180

The association between depressive and anxiety symptoms and bone mineral density in the general population: the HUNT Study

BACKGROUND

Psychiatric disorders may be risk factors for reduced bone mineral density (BMD). Longitudinal evidence is limited and this is yet to be examined among community-dwelling adults with anxiety. We aimed to investigate the cross-sectional and longitudinal relationships between anxiety and depressive symptoms and BMD.

METHOD

This study examined data from the second Nord-Trondelag Health Study (1995-1997; 1194 men and 7842 women) and a follow-up conducted in 2001 (697 men and 2751 women). Symptomatology was ascertained using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale and BMD was measured at the forearm using single-energy X-ray absorptiometry. Information on medication use and lifestyle was self-reported, and these, together with anthropometric measures were tested in multivariate analyses.

RESULTS

In men, adjusted BMD was 2.6% lower at the ultradistal forearm for those with depressive symptoms and 2.6% lower at the ultradistal and 2.0% lower at the distal forearm for those with anxiety symptoms. In women, adjusted BMD at the distal and ultradistal forearm was lower for heavier women with depressive symptoms but this relationship diminished with decreasing weight. Forearm BMD was similar for women with or without anxiety symptoms. Longitudinally, neither depressive nor anxiety symptoms were associated with bone loss over 4.6 years.

LIMITATIONS

Findings cannot be generalised to other skeletal sites and a longer follow-up period may be necessary to detect differences in bone loss.

CONCLUSIONS

These results indicate that depressive and anxiety symptoms are cross-sectionally associated with reduced BMD. These findings provide further evidence to support monitoring BMD in individuals diagnosed with psychiatric illness.

The roles of the sympathetic nervous system in osteoporotic diseases: A review of experimental and clinical studies

With the rapid aging of the world population, the issue of skeletal health is becoming more prominent and urgent. The bone remodeling mechanism has sparked great interest among bone research societies. At the same time, increasing clinical and experimental evidence has driven attention towards the pivotal role of the sympathetic nervous system (SNS) in bone remodeling. Bone remodeling is thought to be partially controlled by the hypothalamus, a process which is mediated by the adrenergic nerves and neurotransmitters. Currently, new knowledge about the role of the SNS in the development and pathophysiology of osteoporosis is being generated. The aim of this review is to summarize the evidence that proves the involvement of the SNS in bone metabolism and to outline some common osteoporotic diseases that occur under different circumstances. The adrenergic signaling pathway and its neurotransmitters are involved to various degrees of importance in the development of osteoporosis in postmenopause, as well as in spinal cord injury, depression, unloading and the complex regional pain syndrome. In addition, clinical and pharmacological studies have helped to increase the comprehension of the adrenergic signaling pathway. We try to individually examine the contributions of the SNS in osteoporotic diseases from a different perspective. It is our hope that a further understanding of the adrenergic signaling by the SNS will pave the way for conceptualizing optimal treatment regimens for osteoporosis in the near future.

Depression and percent body fat in American women, ages 39-49

I investigated the association between depression and percent body fat, two major global problems. Participants are 1,704 American women, ages 39-49, who responded to a detailed self-administered mailed questionnaire. My results showed a positive correlation; the adjusted OR = 1.70, 95% CI (1.20, 2.39), p = .002. Percent body fat was estimated from age, height, and weight, a cost-free method that may be useful in areas in which dual energy X-ray absorptiometry, or other procedures are too costly or unavailable. My findings may aid health and mental health care providers in the management and treatment of patients seen in settings with limited resources.

The relationship between 24-h urinary cortisol and bone in healthy young women

BACKGROUND

Cortisol within the normal range has been associated with reduced bone density in the elderly, but little is known about this relationship in healthy young women.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study is to assess whether 24-h urinary free cortisol excretion (UFC) is related to bone density in 132 healthy, non-obese, regularly menstruating women, aged 19-35.

METHOD

Participants completed questionnaires (food frequency, demographics, physical activity, dietary restraint, perceived stress, and daily stress) and a 24-h urine collection. UFC was determined by high-throughput liquid chromatography and tandem mass spectrometry. Anthropometrics were completed and a dual energy X-ray absorptiometry scan measured areal bone mineral density (aBMD, g/cm(2)) and bone mineral content (BMC, g) at the lumbar spine (L1-4), hip, and total body (TB) as well as total body lean (LBM) and fat mass.

RESULTS

aBMD and BMC were significantly positively associated with height, LBM, physical activity, calcium intake, and duration of previous oral contraceptive use (except L1-4) and negatively with perceived stress. UFC was not correlated with any measured variables except urine volume (r = 0.17, p = 0.046). After adjusting for urine volume, height, LBM, ethnicity, and prior oral contraceptive use, UFC was significantly inversely associated with TB BMC (r = -0.30, p < 0.001) and aBMD (r = -0.27, p = 0.003), L1-4 aBMD (r = -0.19, p = 0.035) and BMC (r = -0.18, p = 0.049), and hip BMC (r = -0.23, p = 0.011). Further adjustment for sport activity, calcium intake and perceived stress did not change these relationships meaningfully except that L1-4 became nonsignificant (p < 0.07).

CONCLUSION

Cortisol within the normal range appears to have a minor negative influence on bone density in healthy young women.

Depression and osteoporosis: a research synthesis with meta-analysis

Major depressive disorder has been associated with low bone mineral density. The strength of this association, however, varies greatly among studies; the direction of the causative link is still controversial, and the etiology remains unclear. We aimed to confirm this association, assess its magnitude and estimate its clinical relevancy. A total of 535 articles were initially identified and the research synthesis was based on 33 qualified articles. Of these, 25 articles (or 76%) showed an inverse relationship between major depression or minor depression or depressive symptoms and bone mineral density or bone turnover. Meta-analysis could be performed on 20 of the initially selected 33 articles. Standardized weighted differences in mean AP spine, total femur and femoral neck bone mineral density, each from at least 10 studies, were computed in g/cm (2) and transformed into percent differences. At each site, bone mass was lower in subjects with depression as compared to controls: AP spine bone mineral density was 4.73% lower (95% CI -7.28% to -2.19%, p<0.0001; n=16 studies), total femur bone mineral density was 3.53% lower (95% CI -5.66% to -1.41%, p<0.001; n=13 studies), and femoral neck bone mineral density was 7.32% lower (95% CI -10.67% to -3.96%; p<0.0005; n=8 studies). In conclusion, major depressive disorder was associated with lower bone mineral density at the AP spine, femoral neck, and total femur. The deficits in bone mineral density in subjects with depression are of clinical significance and likely to increase fracture risk over the lifetime of these subjects.

Depression and bone mass

Although it has been repeatedly suggested that low bone mineral density (BMD) is disproportionately prevalent among patients with depressive disorders, so far depression has not been officially acknowledged as a risk factor for osteoporosis. In a recent meta-analysis comparing depressed with nondepressed individuals we report that BMD is lower in depressed than nondepressed subjects. The association between depression and BMD is stronger in women than men, and in premenopausal than postmenopausal women. Only women psychiatrically diagnosed for major depression display significantly low BMD; women diagnosed by self-rating questionnaires do not. Using a mouse model for depression, we demonstrate a causal relationship between depressive-like behavior and bone loss. The depression-induced bone loss is associated with increases in skeletal norepinephrine and serum corticosterone levels. Bone loss, but not the depressive behavior, could be prevented by a beta-blocker. Hence, depression appears as a significant risk factor for low BMD, causing bone loss through stimulation of the sympathetic nervous system.

Depression as a risk factor for osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a major public health threat. Multiple studies have reported an association between depression and low bone mineral density, but a causal link between these two conditions is disputed. Here we review the endocrine and immune alterations secondary to depression that might affect bone mass. We also discuss the possible role of poor lifestyle in the etiology of osteoporosis in subjects with depression and the potential effect of antidepressants on bone loss. We propose that depression induces bone loss and osteoporotic fractures, primarily via specific immune and endocrine mechanisms, while poor lifestyle habits and use of specific antidepressants are potential contributory factors.

Major depression is a risk factor for low bone mineral density: a meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

The role of depression as a risk factor for low bone mineral density (BMD) and osteoporosis is not fully acknowledged, mainly because the relevant literature is inconsistent and because information on the mechanisms mediating brain-to-bone signals is rather scanty.

METHODS

Searching databases and reviewing citations in relevant articles, we identified 23 studies that quantitatively address the relationship between depression and skeletal status, comparing 2327 depressed with 21,141 nondepressed individuals. We subjected these studies to meta-analysis, assessing the association between depression and BMD as well as between depression and bone turnover markers.

RESULTS

Overall, depressed individuals displayed lower BMD than nondepressed subjects, with a composite weighted mean effect size (d) of -.23 (95% confidence interval: -.33 to -.13; p < .001). The association between depression and BMD was similar in the spine, hip, and forearm. It was stronger in women (d = -.24) than men (d = -.12) and in premenopausal (d = -.31) than postmenopausal (d = -.12) women. Only women individually diagnosed for major depression by a psychiatrist with DSM criteria displayed significantly low BMD (d = -.36); women diagnosed by self-rating questionnaires did not (d = -.06). Depressed subjects had increased urinary levels of bone resorption markers (d = .52).

CONCLUSIONS

The present findings portray depression as a significant risk factor for low BMD. Premenopausal women who are psychiatrically diagnosed with major depression are particularly at high-risk for depression-associated low BMD. Hence, periodic BMD measurements and antiosteoporotic prophylactic and curative measures are strongly advocated for these patients.

Depression and low bone mineral density: a meta-analysis of epidemiologic studies

SUMMARY

The association between depression and loss of bone mineral density (BMD) has been reported inconsistently. This meta-analysis, which pooled results from 14 qualifying individual studies, found that depression was associated with a significantly decreased BMD, with a substantially greater BMD decrease in depressed women and in cases of clinical depression.

INTRODUCTION

The reported association between depression and loss of BMD has been controversial. This meta-analysis was conducted to determine whether depression and BMD are associated and to identify the variation in some subgroups.

METHODS

English-language articles published before October 2008 were used as the data source. A total of six case-controlled and eight cross-sectional studies met prestated inclusion criteria (N = 10,523). Information on study design, participant characteristics, measurements of BMD and depression, and control for potential confounders was abstracted independently by two investigators using a standardized protocol.

RESULTS

Overall, depression was associated with a significant decrease in mean BMD of spine (-0.053 g/cm(2) [95% confidence interval {CI} -0.087 to -0.018 g/cm(2)]) and hip (-0.052 g/cm(2) [95% CI -0.083 to -0.022 g/cm(2)]). A substantially greater BMD decrease was observed in depressed women (-0.076 g/cm(2) in spine; -0.059 g/cm(2) in hip) and in cases of clinical depression (-0.074 g/cm(2) in spine; -0.080 g/cm(2) in hip).

CONCLUSION

Depression is associated with low BMD, with a substantially greater BMD decrease in depressed women and in cases of clinical depression. Depression should be considered as an important risk factor for osteoporosis.

Affective Disorders, Bone Metabolism, and Osteoporosis

The nature of the relationship between affective disorders, bone mineral density (BMD), and bone metabolism is unresolved, although there is growing evidence that many medications used to treat affective disorders are associated with low BMD or alterations in neuroendocrine systems that influence bone turnover. The objective of this review is to describe the current evidence regarding the association of unipolar and bipolar depression with BMD and indicators of bone metabolism, and to explore potential mediating and confounding influences of those relationships. The majority of studies of unipolar depression and BMD indicate that depressive symptoms are associated with low BMD. In contrast, evidence regarding the relationship between bipolar depression and BMD is inconsistent. There is limited but suggestive evidence to support an association between affective disorders and some markers of bone turnover. Many medications used to treat affective disorders have effects on physiologic systems that influence bone metabolism, and these conditions are also associated with a range of health behaviors that can influence osteoporosis risk. Future research should focus on disentangling the pathways linking psychotropic medications and their clinical indications with BMD and fracture risk.

Association of depressive symptoms and anxiety with bone mass and density in ever-smoking and never-smoking adolescent girls

OBJECTIVES

To examine (1) the association of depressive and anxiety symptoms with bone mass and density in adolescent girls and (2) to examine this association in subgroups of those who have ever or never smoked.

DESIGN

Prospective study using baseline reports.

SETTING

Urban teenage health center and the community.

PARTICIPANTS

Two hundred seven girls (aged 11, 13, 15, and 17 years).

OUTCOME MEASURES

Bone mineral density (BMD) and content (BMC) of the hip, spine, and total body determined by dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry. Independent variables included self-report depressive symptoms, anxiety, and smoking history.

RESULTS

Higher depressive symptoms were associated with lower total body BMC and BMD but not hip or spine BMC and BMD. Only in white adolescents was higher state anxiety associated with lower total body BMC and hip BMC and BMD. Ever-smokers were not significantly different than never-smokers in age-adjusted BMC or BMD, but they had higher depressive and anxiety symptoms. Although no significant depression or anxiety by smoking group interactions were found, subgroup analyses suggest that in ever-smokers, higher trait anxiety was related to lower total body BMC.

CONCLUSIONS

This is the first study to report that higher depressive and anxiety symptoms are associated with lower total body BMC during adolescence in girls. Knowing that this association is present at a young age is worrisome, as peak bone mass is attained in adolescence. Findings may aid in identifying girls who are at risk for low bone mass and developing intervention/prevention strategies during adolescence. Importantly, mechanisms that explain these associations and the effect of smoking on bone health need longitudinal examination.

Association of depressive symptoms with bone mineral density in older men: a population-based study

OBJECTIVE

Thirty percent of hip fractures occur in men; nevertheless, the determinants of osteoporosis in men are unclear.

METHODS

We assessed the association of ultrasound-derived bone mineral density (UD-BMD) with depressive symptoms in a population-based study. We assessed the association of 30-item Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS) score with the ultrasound-derived T-score, Z-score, and Stiffness index in all 306 subjects aged 75 + living in Tuscania (Italy).

RESULTS

In multivariable linear regression analysis, GDS was associated among men with the ultrasound-derived T-score (beta = -0.09; 95% CI = -0.15 to -0.03; p = 0.003), Z-score (beta = -0.07; 95% CI = -0.13 to -0.01; p = 0.032), and the Stiffness index (beta = -0.90; 95% CI = -1.64 to -0.16; p = 0.018) after adjusting for potential confounders. No significant associations were observed in women. In linear discriminant analysis, the GDS score cutoff that best predicted osteoporosis was >or=19. Participants with mild to severe depressive symptoms had threefold increased probability of having an ultrasound-derived T-score < -2.5.

CONCLUSIONS

Depressive symptoms are independently associated with all UD-BMD parameters. As depression is a common feature among older populations, and because subjects with depression are infrequent users of preventive services, older men with depression should be prompted to undergo screening for osteoporosis. Conversely, assessment for depression should be performed in older men with diagnosis of osteoporosis.

Low bone mineral density and high bone metabolism turnover in premenopausal women with unipolar depression

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS

The majority of studies reporting decreased bone mineral density (BMD) in patients with unipolar depression neglected sex and age differences and menopause as the most important risk factor for osteoporosis. We presumed that physically healthy premenopausal women with unipolar depression have decreased BMD and altered bone cell metabolism.

METHODS

BMD at lumbar spine and femoral neck by dual X-ray absorptiometry, bone alkaline phosphatase sera activity, 5b-tartarate resistant acid phosphatase sera activity and urine N-terminal telopeptide were measured in 73 premenopausal women with unipolar depression and compared with 47 healthy, age- and osteoporosis risk factors-matched premenopausal women. The duration and severity of depression, hormonal status (cortisol, prolactin, parathormone, oestradiol), antidepressive treatment, and physical activity through whole and modified QUALEFFO-41 questionnaire were evaluated. The results were statistically elaborated by the chi-square test, Student's t-test for independent samples, one-way analysis of variance - ANOVA, one-sample Kolmogorov-Smirnov test. Correlations were assessed by means of Pearson's coefficient.

RESULTS

Patients with unipolar depression had significantly lower BMD, the decrease of which correlated only with the duration of depression. High bone metabolism turnover was found with a predomination of osteoresorption which, but not osteosynthesis, correlated with the severity of depression, estimated through Hamilton depression scores. Despite higher but not significant levels of cortisol in women with unipolar depression, the BMD decrease and high bone turnover seem not to be the consequence of hormonal changes or medical treatment. The significant correlations between physical activity and osteoresorption markers were found indicating possible underlying mechanism.

CONCLUSIONS

Premenopausal women with unipolar depression have significantly lower BMD because of stimulated bone cell metabolism with predomination of osteoresorption process, mostly due to decreased physical activity in depression. These women should be investigated for osteoporosis and the multidisciplinary team approach is advocated.

Depression and osteoporosis: epidemiology and potential mediating pathways

INTRODUCTION

There have been numerous studies examining the association between depression and bone mineral density (BMD), but the underlying nature of this relationship remains unclear. Independent of this association, there is a growing body of evidence that depression impacts the risk for fracture in older adults. This article reviews the current epidemiological evidence regarding comorbidity of depression, low bone mineral density, and fracture.

METHODS

A review of the literature on depression, depressive symptoms, low BMD, osteoporosis, and fracture using electronic databases.

RESULTS

We reviewed 20 studies of the association between depression and BMD and five reports of the relationship between depression and fractures. Potential mediating mechanisms (both physiological and behavioral) are discussed, as well as potential confounding influences (e.g., medication use).

CONCLUSIONS

Most studies support the finding that depression is associated with increased risk for both low BMD and fractures, but variation in study design, sample composition, and exposure measurement make comparisons across studies difficult. Researchers should be aware of potential confounders, such as medication use, that may influence results. Future research should focus on identifying mediating pathways and targets for intervention in the relationships between depression, low BMD, and fracture.

Relation of cortisol levels and bone mineral density among premenopausal women with major depression

We aimed to investigate the relationship between cortisol levels and bone mineral density (BMD) among premenopausal women with major depression. We compared BMD, plasma cortisol, osteocalcin and C-telopeptide (CTx) levels of 36 premenopausal women with major depression with 41 healthy women who were matched for age and body mass index. Osteocalcin and CTx were used for the evaluation of bone turnover. The clinical diagnosis of major depression was made by using the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition (DSM-IV) criteria. The 21-item Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression was used for the assessment of depressive symptoms. In comparison with the controls, the mean BMD of the depressed women was significantly lower at the lumbar spine and at all sites of the proximal femur (p = 0.02, 0.01). Plasma cortisol levels were significantly higher in depressive patients than in controls (p = 0.001). Osteocalcin was lower and CTx was higher in the patient group than in controls (p = 0.04, p = 0.008). Lumbar and femur BMD scores were negatively correlated with cortisol levels in the patient group. Major depression had important effects on BMD and bone turnover markers. Depression should be considered among risk factors for osteoporosis in premenopausal women.