Osteoporosis and fractures after solid organ transplantation: a nationwide population-based cohort study

Increased risk of mortality in lung transplant patients with fragility fractures

Osteoporosis and fragility fractures are frequent complications of lung transplantation patients. Among 131 patients included, 35 (26.5%) patients had a diagnosis of fractures after transplantation. Low bone mineral density was associated with fractures. Fractures post transplantation were identified as an independent risk factor for overall mortality.

INTRODUCTION

The prevalence of osteoporosis among lung transplant candidates has been estimated at 31% to 46%, and significant bone loss occurs after lung transplantation, predominantly in the first year, with increased risk of incident fractures. This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of fragility fractures in a population of lung transplant recipients and the associated risk factors as well as mortality after a fragility fracture.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

This was a cross-sectional monocentric study that included patients with lung transplantation occurring < 10 years and > 1 year who were undergoing lung transplantation monitoring. All patients underwent bone mineral density evaluation by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry and radiography to establish the presence of vertebral fractures. Mortality was assessed 2 years after the last inclusion.

RESULTS

We included 131 patients (82 men, 62.6%), with mean age 56.8 ± 10.8 years. The mean time from lung transplantation to inclusion was 3.5 ± 3.5 years. Overall, 35 (26.5%) patients had a diagnosis of fractures after transplantation; 67 fractures were confirmed (average of 2 per patient), including 48 (71.6%) vertebral fractures. Odds of low bone mineral density at the femoral neck, total hip and spine was associated with fracture: odds ratio 0.007 [0.0002-0.3], 0.001 [0.0002-0.05], and 0.03 [0.001-0.6], respectively. Fracture post transplantation was significantly associated with death (hazard ratio 2.32 [1.01-5.33]).

CONCLUSION

This study confirmed a high prevalence of vertebral fracture in lung transplant patients. Fracture after lung transplant was associated with mortality. Bone fragility needs more attention to reduce the fracture risk.

Lung transplantation and bone health: A narrative review

Bone health after lung transplantation has not been comprehensively reviewed in over 2 decades. This narrative review summarizes the available literature on bone health in the context of lung transplantation, including epidemiology, presentation, and postoperative management. Osteoporosis is reported in approximately 30% to 50% of lung transplant candidates, largely due to disease-related impact on bone and lifestyle, and corticosteroid-related effects during end-stage lung disease (interstitial lung diseases, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and historically cystic fibrosis). After lung transplantation, many patients experience steroid-induced bone loss, followed by stabilization or recovery to baseline levels with pharmacologic management. Although evidence on fracture incidence is limited, fracture risk appears to increase in the year following transplantation, with common fracture sites including the vertebrae and the ribs. Vertebral and rib fractures restrict chest expansion and affect lung function, underscoring the importance of fracture prevention in lung transplant recipients. There is limited evidence on the pharmacologic management of osteoporosis after lung transplantation. Existing randomized controlled trials have focused on parenteral bisphosphonates and calcitriol but have been underpowered to evaluate their effect on fracture outcomes. Resistance training, particularly in conjunction with antiresorptive therapy, has also been shown to improve bone health when initiated 2 months after transplantation. No studies to date have documented the effectiveness of denosumab in lung transplant recipients; more studies on pharmacotherapy are warranted to elucidate optimal medical management. Considering the high osteoporosis prevalence and fracture risk in lung transplant populations, the development of formal guidance is warranted to promote improved management after transplantation.

Teriparatide as Treatment for Severe Osteoporosis in Lung Transplant Recipients

Osteoporosis and osteopenia are common in lung transplant (LTx) recipients, with a significantly increased incidence compared to other non-lung solid organ transplant patients. Despite high fracture rates, including in patients treated with antiresorptive medications, there are limited data on the use of anabolic treatments in LTx recipients. We present clinical, biochemical and bone mineral density data for 3 patients with severe osteoporosis treated with teriparatide 20 micrograms daily for 18 months post-LTx. Prednisone doses ranged between 5 and 10 mg daily throughout the treatment period. All patients had previously received zoledronate (last dose 12-24 months prior to teriparatide). Bone turnover was monitored repeatedly during treatment in one patient. Following completion of teriparatide, all patients received consolidation treatment with 4 mg zoledronate. Bone density was measured prior and within 6 to 12 months after completion of teriparatide. All 3 patients experienced an increase in bone density at the lumbar spine (median +12%; range, 2%-14%) and total proximal femur (median +8%, range, 8%-10%). No adverse effects were observed. Given that severe osteoporosis is highly prevalent in LTx patients, teriparatide should be further studied as a treatment in this clinical setting. Our cases suggest it is safe and effective.

High risk of osteoporosis and fracture following solid organ transplantation: a population-based study

Background

Osteoporosis and fractures increase morbidity and mortality rates after solid organ transplantation (SOT), but few studies have analyzed the risk of osteoporosis and related fractures after SOT. In this retrospective cohort study, we investigated the risk of osteoporosis and fractures in different SOT recipients.

Methods

This study was a retrospective cohort study using a nationally representative database in Taiwan. We collected the data of SOT recipients and used the propensity score matching method to obtain a comparison cohort. To reduce bias, we excluded patients who had been diagnosed with osteoporosis or fracture before inclusion. All participants were followed up until the date of diagnosis as having a pathological fracture, death, or the end of 2018, whichever occurred first. The Cox proportional hazards model was used to investigate the risk of osteoporosis and pathological fracture in SOT recipients.

Results

After adjustment for the aforementioned variables, SOT recipients were observed to have a higher risk of osteoporosis (hazard ratio (HR) = 1.46, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.29-1.65) and fracture (HR: 1.19, 95% CI: 1.01-1.39) than the general individuals. Among the different SOT recipients, the highest risk of fractures was noted in heart or lung transplant recipients, with a HR of 4.62 (95% CI: 2.05-10.44). Among the age groups, patients aged >61 years had the highest HRs for osteoporosis (HR: 11.51; 95% CI, 9.10-14.56) and fracture (HR: 11.75, 95% CI: 8.97-15.40).

Conclusion

SOT recipients had a higher risk of osteoporosis and related fractures than the general population, with the highest risks observed in patients receiving heart or lung transplants, older patients, and patients with CCI scores of >3.

Bone Disease in Long-Term Lung Transplant Survivors

Background: During the first two years after lung transplantation (LTx), the incidence of fragility fractures (FX) is estimated to be 15–50% and it is lower in patients with cystic fibrosis (CF) as compared with other end-stage lung diseases (nCF). The aim of our study is to compare the skeletal outcomes, after the first 2 years post-LTx, in long-term survivors with CF and nCF. Materials and Methods: We evaluated the FX rate, the changes in bone mineral density (BMD) and trabecular bone score (TBS) in 68 patients (38 CF and 30 nCF) who underwent LTx in our center and with a follow-up after LTx longer than 5 years (7.3 ± 2.0 years). Results: After the second year post-LTx: (i) the FX rate was lower than during the first two years post-LTx (4.4 vs. 20.6%, p = 0.004), with no difference between CF and nCF patients (5.3 vs. 3.3%, p = 0.589); (ii) BMD at lumbar spine, femoral neck and total hip remained stable (−1.6 ± 1.0 vs. −1.4 ± 1.1, p = 0.431, −1.8 ± 0.9 vs. −1.9 ± 0.9, p = 0.683, −1.5 ± 0.9 vs. −1.4 ± 0.9, p = 0.678, respectively) as well as TBS (1.200 ± 0.124 vs. 1.199 ± 0.205, p = 0.166). Conclusions: After the second year post-LTx, the skeletal complications become less frequent and have similar incidence in patients with CF and nCF.

Frailty and genetic risk predict fracture after lung transplantation

Fractures negatively impact quality of life and survival. We hypothesized that recipient frailty score and genetic profile measured before transplant would predict risk of fracture after lung transplant. We conducted a retrospective cohort study of bone mineral density (BMD) and fracture among lung transplant recipients at a single center. The association between predictors and outcomes were assessed by multivariable time-dependent Cox models or regression analysis. Among the 284 participants, osteoporosis and fracture were highly prevalent. Approximately 59% of participants had posttransplant osteopenia, and 35% of participants developed at least 1 fracture. Low BMD was associated with a polygenic osteoporosis risk score, and the interaction between genetic score and BMD predicted fracture. Pretransplant frailty was associated with risk for spine and hip fracture, which were not associated with chronic lung allograft dysfunction or death. Chest fractures were the most frequent type of fracture and conferred a 2.2-fold increased risk of chronic lung allograft dysfunction or death (time-dependent P < .001). Pneumonia, pleural effusions, and acute rejection frequently occurred surrounding chest fracture. Pretransplant frailty and recipient genotype may aid clinical risk stratification for fracture after transplant. Fracture carries significant morbidity, underscoring the importance of surveillance and osteoporosis prevention.

Human complete NFAT1 deficiency causes a triad of joint contractures, osteochondromas, and B-cell malignancy

The discovery of humans with monogenic disorders has a rich history of generating new insights into biology. Here we report the first human identified with complete deficiency of nuclear factor of activated T cells 1 (NFAT1). NFAT1, encoded by NFATC2, mediates calcium-calcineurin signals that drive cell activation, proliferation, and survival. The patient is homozygous for a damaging germline NFATC2 variant (c.2023_2026delTACC; p.Tyr675Thrfs∗18) and presented with joint contractures, osteochondromas, and recurrent B-cell lymphoma. Absence of NFAT1 protein in chondrocytes caused enrichment in prosurvival and inflammatory genes. Systematic single-cell-omic analyses in PBMCs revealed an environment that promotes lymphomagenesis with accumulation of naïve B cells (enriched for oncogenic signatures MYC and JAK1), exhausted CD4+ T cells, impaired T follicular helper cells, and aberrant CD8+ T cells. This work highlights the pleiotropic role of human NFAT1, will empower the diagnosis of additional patients with NFAT1 deficiency, and further defines the detrimental effects associated with long-term use of calcineurin inhibitors.

The Effects of CNI and Mtori-Based Regimens on Bone Mineral Density After Renal Transplantation

Background: Since glucocorticoids are used in low maintenance doses today, the relationship between calcineurin inhibitors (CNI) and osteoporosis has become clinically significant in osteoporosis after solid organ transplantation. However, there is evidence that the mammalian target of rapamycin inhibitors (mTORi) may be beneficial via osteoclast inhibition. Objective: The bone mineral density (BMD) changes are investigated in renal transplant patients under CNI or mTORi-based maintenance regimens during the first five-year post-transplant course. Methods: This study consists of thirty-three renal allograft recipients with less than one year of dialysis history. The exclusion criteria were: being older than 50 years old, history of bisphosphonate use, parathyroidectomy, CNI-mTORi switch after the post-transplant third month, diuretic use, and history of malignancy. First and fifth-year BMD scores and simultaneous laboratory parameters were evaluated. Results: CNI (n=21) and mTORi group (n=12) had similar demographics, dialysis vintages, first and fifth-year serum parathormone, calcium, phosphate, magnesium, alkaline phosphatase, and 25-OH-vitamin D levels. The femur neck scores of the CNI group decreased from -0.82 (±0.96) to -1.52 (±0.92) (p=0.020). We observed a significant decrease in the CNI group compared to the mTORi group [-0.70 (±0.68) and 0.30 (±0.36), respectively; p<0.01] when the BMD score changes were evaluated among years. The mean femur neck score of the mTORi group increased insignificantly from -1.13 (±0.65) to -0.82 (±0.56) at the fifth-year DXA scan (p=0.230). Similar trends were also observed in L1-4 scores. Conclusion: Our study suggests that CNI-based treatment is associated with decreased femur neck BMD scores, and mTORi-based treatment tends to be beneficial in the post-transplant five-year follow-up.

Revision total knee arthroplasty outcomes in solid organ transplant Patients, a matched cohort study of aseptic and infected revisions

BACKGROUND

Previous studies have demonstrated that solid organ transplant (SOT) patients undergoing primary total knee arthroplasty (TKA) are at an increased risk of postoperative complications. The purpose of this study is to utilize a large, national database to investigate revision TKA (rTKA) outcomes in SOT patients.

METHODS

This was a retrospective review utilizing the Nationwide Readmissions Database (NRD) and ICD-9 codes to identify patients who underwent rTKA from 2010-2014 with a history of at least one SOT. Propensity-score-matching (PSM) was used to compare rTKA outcomes in SOT patients compared to matched patients without SOT.

RESULTS

A total of 303,867 rTKAs, with 464 of those being performed in SOT patients, were included in the study. Of these, 71,903 and 182 were performed for PJI in non-SOT and SOT patients, respectively. rTKA was performed most frequently in kidney transplant patients (53.0%) followed by liver transplant patients (34.3%). For non-PJI patients, SOT patients had a higher 90-day readmission rate than matched non-SOT rTKA patients (23.2% vs 12.6%, p = 0.006). However, there were no differences in 90-day readmission rates for specific rTKA complications, subsequent revision rTKA, or mortality. Among patients undergoing rTKA for PJI, there was no difference in overall 90-day readmission rate, readmission for specific rTKA complications, subsequent revision rTKA, or mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

While the increased medical comorbidities associated with SOT place patients at increased risk for complications following rTKA, it appears that SOT alone does not do so when patients are matched based on overall medical comorbidity.

Impact of bone-active drugs and underlying disease on bone health after lung transplantation: A longitudinal study

INTRODUCTION

the effect of bone-active drugs on the risk of fragility fractures (Fx), bone mineral density (BMD) and trabecular bone score (TBS) changes in patients receiving lung transplantation (LTx) is largely unknown. This study assessed the bone-active drugs effect in patients undergoing LTx both with (CF) and without (nCF) cystic-fibrosis.

METHODS

We evaluated incident Fx, both clinical and morphometric vertebral Fx by spinal X-ray, BMD and trabecular bone score (TBS) in 117 patients (CF=50, nCF n = 67) before and 24-months after LTx. A bone-active therapy was proposed to all LTx candidates.

RESULTS

83.8% of patients started a bone-active drug. Lumbar-spine (LS) T-score improved significantly only in treated patients (-1.4 ± 1.0 vs -2.0±1.0, p = 0.0001), whereas femur BMD and TBS remained stable in treated and not treated subjects. The rate of incident Fx was 15.3%, with no difference between treated and not treated patients. After LTx, LS T-score improved significantly only in nCF group (-1.3 ± 1.0 vs -1.8 ± 1.1, p = 0.0001), while femur remained stable in both nCF and CF groups. Patients with CF showed a significant Z-TBS increase (-3.6 ± 1.7 vs -3.0 ± 1.7, p = 0.019) and a lower Fx incidence as compared with nCF patients (4.1% vs 24.2%, p  =0.003). Incident Fx were associated with nCF diagnosis (OR 7.300, CI95% 1.385-38.461, p = 0.019) regardless of prevalent Fx, previous glucocorticoid therapy and bone-active therapy introduced at least 6 months before LTx.

CONCLUSIONS

A prompt medical intervention helps in preventing BMD loss after LTx. As compared with nCF patients, CF patients show a TBS increase and a lower Fx risk after LTx.

[Osteoporosis in pneumological diseases : Joint guideline of the Austrian Society for Bone and Mineral Research (ÖGKM) and the Austrian Society for Pneumology (ÖGP)]

Chronic inflammation induces proinflammatory cytokine cascades. In addition to systemic inflammation, hypoxemia, hypercapnia, a catabolic metabolism, gonadal or thyroid dysfunction, musculoskeletal dysfunction and inactivity as well as vitamin D deficiency contribute to an increased risk of fragility fractures. Iatrogenic causes of osteoporosis are long-term use of inhaled or systemic glucocorticoids (GC). Inhalative GC application in asthma is often indicated in childhood and adolescence, but interstitial lung diseases such as chronic organizing pneumonia, COPD, sarcoid or rheumatic diseases with lung involvement are also treated with inhalative or oral GC. In patients with cystic fibrosis, malabsorption in the context of pancreatic insufficiency, hypogonadism and chronic inflammation with increased bone resorption lead to a decrease in bone structure. After lung transplantation, immunosuppression with GC is a risk factor.The underlying pneumological diseases lead to a change in the trabecular and cortical bone microarchitecture and to a reduction in osteological formation and resorption markers. Hypercapnia, acidosis and vitamin D deficiency can accelerate this process and thus increase the individual risk of osteoporotic fragility fractures.A bone mineral density measurement with a T‑Score < -2.5 is a threshold value for the diagnosis of osteoporosis; in contrast the vast majority of all osteoporotic fractures occur with a T‑Score > -2.5. A history of low-trauma fracture indicates osteological therapy.All antiresorptive or anabolic drugs approved in Austria for the treatment of osteoporosis are also indicated for pneumological patients with an increased fragility fracture risk of bone fractures in accordance with the national reimbursement criteria.

A systematic review and meta-analysis on the incidence of osteoporosis and fractures after liver transplant

Following liver transplant (LT), osteoporosis is a severe complication that causes morbidity. However, the incidence and risk factors of osteoporosis and fractures have not been well described. Single-arm meta-analysis of studies reporting osteopenia, osteoporosis, and fractures post-LT was performed with meta-regression for study period. Dichotomous variables, continuous variables and time-to-event variables were pooled in odds ratio, weighted mean difference and hazard ratio, respectively. For risk factors with limited data, a systematic review of literature was conducted. There was a significant increase in both osteoporosis and fractures compared to non-LT patients. Osteopenia, osteoporosis and incident fractures were newly diagnosed in 34.53% (CI: 0.17-0.56, n = 301), 11.68% (CI: 0.05-0.24, n = 1251) and 20.40% (CI: 0.13-0.30, n = 4322) of LT patients, respectively. Female gender (P = 0.017) increased risks of osteoporosis but not older age and BMI. Older age, lower pre-LT bone mineral density (BMD), presence of bone disease pre-LT were significant risk factors for fractures but not female gender, post-menopausal state, BMI, smoking and alcohol. There is a high incidence of skeletal complications post-LT. Older age, lower pre-LT BMD and presence of bone disease pre-LT are significant risk factors that are associated with incident fractures physicians should be cognisant of in liver transplant recipients.

Mineral Bone Disorders in Kidney Transplantation

Bone disease after kidney transplantation is associated with an increased risk of fractures, morbidity, and mortality. Its pathophysiology is complex, involving multiple contributors including pretransplant bone disease, immunosuppressive medications, and changes in the parathyroid-bone-kidney axis. Risk scores, bone turnover markers, and noninvasive imaging modalities are only able to partially predict the fracture risk in kidney transplant recipients. The optimal management of bone disease after kidney transplantation has not yet been established, with only a limited number of randomized clinical trials evaluating the efficacy of treatment regimens in kidney transplant recipients. This review focuses on the pathophysiology, evaluation, prevention, and treatment of post-kidney transplant mineral and bone disease as guided by recent evidence.

Effect of Postoperative Adverse Events on Hospitalization Expenditures and Length of Stay Among Surgery Patients in Taiwan: A Nationwide Population-Based Case-Control Study

Background: The current study sought to determine the incidence of postoperative adverse events (AEs) based on data from the 2006 Taiwan National Health Insurance Research Database (NHIRD).

Methods: This retrospective case-control study included patients who experienced postoperative AEs in 387 hospitals throughout Taiwan in 2006. The independent variable was the presence or absence of 10 possible postoperative AEs, as identified by patient safety indicators (PSIs).

Results: A total of 17,517 postoperative AEs were identified during the study year. PSI incidence ranged from 0.1/1,000 admissions (obstetric trauma-cesarean section) to 132.6/1,000 admissions (obstetric trauma with instrument). Length of stay (LOS) associated with postoperative AEs ranged from 0.10 days (obstetric trauma with instrument) to 14.06 days (postoperative respiratory failure). Total hospitalization expenditures (THEs) ranged from 363.7 New Taiwan Dollars (obstetric trauma without instrument) to 263,732 NTD (postoperative respiratory failure). Compared to patients without AEs, we determined that the THEs were 2.13 times in cases of postoperative AE and LOS was 1.72 times higher.

Conclusions: AEs that occur during hospitalization have a major impact on THEs and LOS.

Timing of Osteoporotic Vertebral Fractures in Lung and Heart Transplantation: A Longitudinal Study

Bone loss and bone fractures are common complications after organ transplantation. Many factors contribute to the pathogenesis of transplant osteoporosis, such as bone disease preceding transplantation, immunosuppressive medications, and nutritional and lifestyle factors. This study aimed to assess the incidence of vertebral fractures before and after lung and heart transplantation. This longitudinal study analyzed 213 electronic medical records of patients who underwent lung transplantation (n = 128) and heart transplantation (n = 85) at Siena University Medical Center between January 2000 and December 2018. In lung and heart transplant recipients, the bone mineral density in the femoral sub-regions show a significant decrease at post-transplantation and at follow up visits. In both lung and heart recipients, we found an increase in the fracture incidence in the first period after transplantation (19.5% vs. 50.4% in lung recipients; 9.6% vs. 25.7% in heart recipients). Moreover, in lung recipients, vertebral fractures were predicted primarily by age, BMD at the femur, and any history of fracture. In heart recipients, vertebral fractures were predicted only by history of fracture. Our study supports the recommendations for pre-transplant osteoporosis screening in patients undergoing lung transplants, and in the first period after transplantation in heart transplant recipients.

Tacrolimus-induced hypomagnesemia and hypercalciuria requires FKBP12 suggesting a role for calcineurin

Calcineurin inhibitors (CNIs) are immunosuppressive drugs used to prevent graft rejection after organ transplant. Common side effects include renal magnesium wasting and hypomagnesemia, which may contribute to new-onset diabetes mellitus, and hypercalciuria, which may contribute to post-transplant osteoporosis. Previous work suggested that CNIs reduce the abundance of key divalent cation transport proteins, expressed along the distal convoluted tubule, causing renal magnesium and calcium wasting. It has not been clear, however, whether these effects are specific for the distal convoluted tubule, and whether these represent off-target toxic drug effects, or result from inhibition of calcineurin. The CNI tacrolimus can inhibit calcineurin only when it binds with the immunophilin, FKBP12; we previously generated mice in which FKBP12 could be deleted along the nephron, to test whether calcineurin inhibition is involved, these mice are normal at baseline. Here, we confirmed that tacrolimus-treated control mice developed hypomagnesemia and urinary calcium wasting, with decreased protein and mRNA abundance of key magnesium and calcium transport proteins (NCX-1 and Calbindin-D28k ). However, qPCR also showed decreased mRNA expression of NCX-1 and Calbindin-D28k , and TRPM6. In contrast, KS-FKBP12-/- mice treated with tacrolimus were completely protected from these effects. These results indicate that tacrolimus affects calcium and magnesium transport along the distal convoluted tubule and strongly suggests that inhibition of the phosphatase, calcineurin, is directly involved.

Charcot Neuroarthropathy Advances: Understanding Pathogenesis and Medical and Surgical Management

Understanding new theories of the epidemiology of Charcot neuroarthropathy is practice changing. Treatment of Charcot neuroarthropathy is evolving from a passive approach to one that sees the urgency of proactive, early recognition, thereby avoiding the cascading events that lead to the complex, limb-threatening deformities. Preventive medicine is the most efficient at avoiding severe deformity, with prolonged offloading and immobilization as the current mainstay of treatment. However, with recent advancements in medical and surgical modalities, this may become the treatment of the past as clinicians begin to favor medical management and early surgical intervention.

Bone disease following solid organ transplantation: A narrative review and recommendations for management from The European Calcified Tissue Society

INTRODUCTION

Solid organ transplantation is an established therapy for end-stage organ failure. Both pre-transplantation bone disease and immunosuppressive regimens result in rapid bone loss and increased fracture rates.

METHODS

The European Calcified Tissue Society (ECTS) formed a working group to perform a systematic review of existing literature on the consequences of end-stage kidney, liver, heart, and lung disease on bone health. Moreover, we assessed the characteristics of post-transplant bone disease and the skeletal effects of immunosuppressive agents and aimed to provide recommendations for the prevention and treatment of transplantation-related osteoporosis.

RESULTS

Characteristics of bone disease may differ depending on the organ that fails, but patients awaiting solid organ transplantation frequently depict a wide spectrum of bone and mineral abnormalities. Common features are a decreased bone mass and impaired bone strength with consequent high fracture risk, all of which are aggravated in the early post-transplantation period.

CONCLUSION

Both the underlying disease leading to end-stage organ failure and the immunosuppression regimens implemented after successful organ transplantation have detrimental effects on bone mass, quality and strength. Given existing ample data confirming the high frequency of bone disease in patients awaiting solid organ transplantation, we recommend that all transplant candidates should be assessed for osteoporosis and fracture risk and, if indicated, treated before and after transplantation. Since bone loss in the early post-transplantation period occurs in virtually all solid organ recipients and is associated with glucocorticoid administration, the goal should be to use the lowest possible dose and to taper and withdraw glucocorticoids as early as possible.

Bone Diseases in Patients with Chronic Liver Disease

Osteoporosis is a frequently observed complication in patients with chronic liver disease, particularly liver cirrhosis and cholestatic liver diseases. In addition, osteoporosis is critical in patients receiving a liver transplant. Nevertheless, few studies have evaluated bone diseases in patients with more frequently observed chronic liver disease, such as chronic viral hepatitis, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and alcoholic liver disease. Osteoporosis is a disease caused by an imbalance in the activities of osteoblasts and osteoclasts. Over the last few decades, many advances have improved our knowledge of the pathogenesis of osteoporosis. Importantly, activated immune cells affect the progression of osteoporosis, and chronic inflammation may exert an additional effect on the existing pathophysiology of osteoporosis. The microbiota of the intestinal tract may also affect the progression of bone loss in patients with chronic liver disease. Recently, studies regarding the effects of chronic inflammation on dysbiosis in bone diseases have been conducted. However, mechanisms underlying osteoporosis in patients with chronic liver disease are complex and precise mechanisms remain unknown. The following special considerations in patients with chronic liver disease are reviewed: bone diseases in patients who underwent a liver transplant, the association between chronic hepatitis B virus infection treatment and bone diseases, the association between sarcopenia and bone diseases in patients with chronic liver disease, and the association between chronic liver disease and avascular necrosis of the hip. Few guidelines are currently available for the management of low bone mineral density or bone diseases in patients with chronic liver disease. Due to increased life expectancy and therapeutic advances in chronic liver disease, the importance of managing osteoporosis and other bone diseases in patients with chronic liver disease is expected to increase. Consequently, specific guidelines need to be established in the near future.

Outcomes of total hip arthroplasty surgery in heart and lung transplant recipients

BACKGROUND

Traditionally, arthroplasty in heart and lung transplant patients has been undertaken to manage transplant-related complications. More recently, arthroplasty is increasingly being performed for end-stage osteoarthritis. This study reviewed short-term outcomes and complications of total hip arthroplasty (THA) in heart and lung transplant recipients.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort of heart and lung transplant recipients who underwent THA was identified using ICD-10 coding. Post-operative complications and hospital outcomes were collected using the patient medical record.

RESULTS

Thirteen patients underwent 17 primary THA between 2008 and 2017, including five for osteoarthritis and 12 for femoral head avascular necrosis. Of the 13 patients, nine were bilateral sequential lung transplant recipients and four were orthotopic heart transplant recipients. The mean patient age was 61 years, with nine being male. Overall, five patients had one post-operative complication with eight having two or more complications. Surgical complications included three intraoperative fractures, three patients with superficial infection and one with deep infection requiring surgery. Seven patients had significant bleeding requiring blood transfusion. Prosthetic dislocations occurred in two patients, with one patient requiring revision surgery (developing a joint infection). Other complications included one pulmonary embolism, two episodes of pneumonia and six episodes of acute kidney injury, whilst three patients developed post-operative delirium. At 6-week follow-up, five patients had ongoing pain and seven had limitations with mobility. At 12-month follow-up, three patients reported ongoing pain.

CONCLUSION

Complications following THA after transplant are common. The risks and benefits of THA should be carefully considered preoperatively in this cohort.

Lung Transplantation

Lung transplantation is an appropriate therapeutic option for select patients with end-stage lung diseases and offers the possibility of improved quality of life and longer survival. Unfortunately, the transplant recipient is at risk for numerous immunologic, infectious, and medical complications that threaten both of these goals. Median survival after lung transplantation is approximately 6 years. Optimizing outcomes requires close partnership between the patient, transplant center, and primary medical team. Early referral to a transplant center should be considered for patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and related interstitial lung diseases due to risk of acute exacerbation and accelerated development of respiratory failure.

Development of Charcot Neuroarthropathy in Diabetic Patients who Received Kidney or Kidney-Pancreas Transplants

Only a small percentage of the general diabetic population develops Charcot neuroarthropathy. Charcot arthropathy greatly increases the risk of foot complications. At our academic institution, there appeared to be an increased incidence of Charcot arthropathy in transplant patients. We hypothesized that Charcot neuroarthropathy incidence is higher in the diabetic patients who had received kidney or kidney-pancreas transplants. The charts of 1000 patients were reviewed from January 2000 to January 2011. Four hundred and eighty-seven patients were included in the study. Of these diabetic patients, 249 had received a kidney transplant and 238 a kidney-pancreas transplant. The data were analyzed for the incidence of Charcot in each group. Other risk factors and sequelae were also evaluated and analyzed. The incidence of Charcot development in the diabetic patients who had a kidney-pancreas transplant was 18.4%, 44 of 238 patients. This was significantly higher than the incidence in kidney transplant patients, which was 11.2%, 28 of 249 patients (p < .05). Peripheral arterial disease was a statistically significant independent risk factor for developing ulceration, osteomyelitis, and subsequent amputation. Type 1 diabetic patients developed Charcot at a higher rate that was also statistically significant compared with type 2 diabetic patients. In our study, diabetic patients who had undergone kidney-pancreas transplants were associated with higher risk for development of Charcot neuroarthropathy than kidney transplants alone. The incidence of Charcot development in both these transplant groups was also much higher than in the general diabetic population. This is of particular interest to clinicians and surgeons as both transplant groups were found to be high risk for subsequent foot ulceration, infection, and amputation.

Effects of denosumab on bone metabolism and bone mineral density in kidney transplant patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

The use of immunosuppressive agents, especially glucocorticoids, are associated with increased risks of bone loss in kidney transplant patients. Denosumab, a potent antiresorptive agent, has been shown to increase bone mineral density (BMD) in patients with CKD. However, its effects on bone metabolism and BMD in kidney transplant patients remain unclear.

METHODS

A literature search was conducted using MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane Database from inception through April 2018 to identify studies evaluating denosumab's effect on changes in bone metabolism and BMD from baseline to post-treatment course in kidney transplant patients. Study results were pooled and analyzed utilizing random-effects model. The protocol for this systematic review is registered with PROSPERO (International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews; no. CRD42018095055).

RESULTS

Five studies (a clinical trial and four cohort studies) with a total of 162 kidney transplant patients were identified. The majority of patients had a baseline eGFR ≥ 30 mL/min/1.73 m². After treatment (≥ 6 to 12 months), there were significant increases in BMD with standardized mean differences (SMDs) of 3.26 (95% CI 0.88-5.64) and 1.83 (95% CI 0.43 to 3.22) for lumbar spine and femoral neck, respectively. There were also significant increases in T scores with SMDs of 0.92 (95% CI 0.58 to 1.25) and 1.14 (95% CI 0.17 to 2.10) for lumbar spine and femoral neck, respectively. After treatment, there were no significant changes in serum calcium (Ca) or parathyroid hormone (PTH) from baseline to post-treatment course (≥ 6 months) with mean differences (MDs) of 0.52 (95% CI, - 0.13 to 1.16) mmol/L and - 13.24 (95% CI, - 43.85 to 17.37) ng/L, respectively. The clinical trial data demonstrated more asymptomatic hypocalcemia in the denosumab (12 episodes in 39 patients) than in the control (1 episode in 42 patients) group. From the cohort studies, the pooled incidence of hypocalcemia following denosumab treatment was 1.7% (95% CI 0.4 to 6.6%). All reported hypocalcemic episodes were mild and asymptomatic, but the majority of patients required Ca and vitamin D supplements.

CONCLUSION

Among kidney transplant patients with good allograft function, denosumab effectively increases BMD and T scores in the lumbar spine and femur neck. From baseline to post-treatment, there are no differences in serum Ca and PTH. However, mild hypocalcemia can occur following denosumab treatment, requiring monitoring and titration of Ca and vitamin D supplements.

Guidelines for the management of osteoporosis and fragility fractures

The purpose of this document, a result of the harmonisation and revision of Guidelines published separately by the SIMFER, SIOMMMS/SIR, and SIOT associations, is to provide practical indications based on specific levels of evidence and various grades of recommendations, drawn from available literature, for the management of osteoporosis and for the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of fragility fractures. These indications were discussed and formally approved by the delegates of the Italian Scientific Associations involved in the project (SIE, SIGG, SIMFER, SIMG, SIMI, SIOMMMS, SIR, and SIOT).

Medical Course and Complications After Lung Transplantation

Lung transplant prolongs life and improves quality of life in patients with end-stage lung disease. However, survival of lung transplant recipients is shorter compared to patients with other solid organ transplants, due to many unique features of the lung allograft. Patients can develop a multitude of noninfectious (e.g., primary graft dysfunction, pulmonary embolism, rejection, acute and chronic, renal insufficiency, malignancies) and infectious (i.e., bacterial, fungal, and viral) complications and require complex multidisciplinary care. This chapter discusses medical course and complications that patients might experience after lung transplantation.

Acute hypocalcaemia following denosumab in heart and lung transplant patients with osteoporosis

BACKGROUND

Osteoporosis is highly prevalent in the heart and lung transplant population. Given high rates of concurrent renal impairment, there is increasing use of denosumab in this population. However, denosumab may be associated with hypocalcaemia, particularly in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD).

AIM

To explore the risk of hypocalcaemia in a heart and lung transplant cohort prescribed denosumab for osteoporosis.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective database review of all surviving heart and lung transplant patients who had received denosumab for osteoporosis between January 2012 and November 2015. We assessed the rates of hypocalcaemia in this cohort and collected baseline clinical data to determine associated factors.

RESULTS

Ten patients received denosumab and had laboratory results available within 3 months of the dose. Of these, three patients developed severe (grade 4) hypocalcaemia, while two patients developed mild (grade 1) hypocalcaemia. In comparison to the five patients who remained normocalcaemic, patients with hypocalcaemia had significantly lower baseline mean estimated glomerular filtration rate but similar baseline mean corrected serum calcium. Unexpectedly, patients developing hypocalcaemia had non-significantly higher levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D and lower baseline doses of prednisone.

CONCLUSIONS

In heart and lung transplant patients, denosumab should be used judiciously in patients with advanced renal disease due to the risk of hypocalcaemia.

Myostatin and other musculoskeletal markers in lung transplant recipients

Recipients of lung transplantation (LuTx) may experience impaired muscle function and bone metabolism even after rehabilitation. We investigated the potential use of musculoskeletal markers in identifying the impairment of muscle function and bone function in these patients. Biochemical parameters, bodily functions, and lung function of 37 LuTx recipients were evaluated at the time of their discharge from the hospital stay and about 6 months later. The biomarkers were also assessed in 30 healthy age and gender distribution-matched controls. Compared to controls, the negative muscle regulator myostatin was elevated in LuTx recipients at baseline and follow-up, whereas its opponent follistatin only showed a group-specific difference at follow-up. LuTx recipients had reduced serum levels of sclerostin and increased levels of dickkopf 1 and periostin. Lung function and physical function were improved during follow-up. The change in lung function was correlated with the change in chair-rising time and the 6-min walking test. At follow-up, all musculoskeletal markers of LuTx recipients differed from those of controls, thus reflecting their still reduced lung function and bodily functions. Among the tested biomarkers, myostatin, sclerostin, dickkopf 1, and periostin were useful to detect impaired musculoskeletal function in LuTx recipients. Myostatin may serve as a target of treatment in the future.

Effects of the calcineurin inhibitors cyclosporine and tacrolimus on bone metabolism in rats

Immunosuppressive therapy is considered as one of the factors inducing to the onset of osteoporosis after organ transplantation. Chronic immunosuppressive therapy after transplantation is required for organ transplant patients, and it is important to prevent the occurrence of osteoporotic fractures to maintain the quality of life in patients. In this study, we examined the effects of cyclosporine and tacrolimus on bone metabolism in rats. Five-week-old male Wistar rats were treated orally with 15 mg/kg cyclosporine or 1.5 mg/kg tacrolimus daily for 4 weeks. Each of cyclosporine and tacrolimus significantly reduced the bone strength of the femoral mid-diaphysis and bone mineral density of the tibia and femur. Bone histomorphometry showed that the administration of both drugs resulted in a decrease in bone volume, number and thickness of trabeculae, and an increase in trabecular separation. Bone formation parameters such as osteoid volume, osteoblast surface, mineralizing surface, mineral apposition rate, and bone formation rate significantly increased in the cyclosporine-treated group. Bone resorption parameters such as eroded surface, osteoclast surface, and osteoclast number significantly increased in both the cyclosporine- and the tacrolimus- treated groups. These results showed that cyclosporine increases both bone formation and bone resorption, leading to a high-turnover bone loss, and that tacrolimus increases bone resorption without affecting bone formation, leading to bone loss.

CYP3A4 is a crosslink between vitamin D and calcineurin inhibitors in solid organ transplant recipients: implications for bone health

The use of calcineurin inhibitors (CNIs) and vitamin D deficiency may contribute to the pathogenesis of post-transplant bone disease. CNIs and 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D₃ (1,25(OH)₂D₃) are substrates of the drug-metabolizing enzyme CYP3A4. This review summarizes the indications for the use of activated vitamin D analogs in post-transplant care and the current knowledge on the impact of CNIs on bone. We searched for clinical evidence of the interaction between CNIs and 1,25(OH)₂D₃. We also provide an overview of the literature on the interplay between vitamin D metabolism and CYP3A4 in experimental and clinical settings and discuss its possible implications for solid organ transplant recipients. In conclusion, there is a body of evidence on the interplay between vitamin D and the drug-metabolizing enzyme CYP3A4, which may have therapeutic implications.

Complicated Outcomes After Emergent Lower Extremity Surgery in Patients With Solid Organ Transplants

The complications of emergent or urgent surgery in solid organ transplant recipients are unclear. The goal of this nonrandomized retrospective case study, conducted at a large public university teaching hospital, was to determine the following: (1) 90-day postsurgical complications in solid organ transplant recipients who undergo fracture surgery of the lower extremities; (2) 90-day and 1-year mortality rates for this cohort; (3) correlation of particular postsurgical complications with the 90-day or 1-year mortality rate; and (4) correlation of body mass index with the 90-day or 1-year mortality rate. Subjects included 36 solid organ transplant recipients who underwent surgical treatment for 37 emergent or urgent lower extremity fractures within 72 hours of presentation to the emergency department. Patients were followed for all medical and surgical complications for 90 days and for all-cause mortality for 1 year. Within 90 days of surgery, patients had complications that included acute renal failure (15, 40.5%), deep venous thrombosis (3, 8.1%), pulmonary embolus (2, 5.4%), pneumonia (7, 18.9%), superficial surgical site infection (3, 8.1%), and nonorthopedic sepsis (4, 10.8%). In addition, 3 (8.1%) and 5 (13.9%) patients died within 90 days and 1 year, respectively. Hospital readmission correlated with a higher 1-year mortality rate (odds ratio, 14.000; P=.016). Higher body mass index correlated with higher 90-day (odds ratio, 1.425; P=.035) and 1-year (odds ratio, 1.334; P=.033) mortality rates. Solid organ transplant recipients with lower extremity fracture have high 90-day and 1-year mortality rates and may have multiple complications within 90 days of treatment. [Orthopedics. 2016; 39(6):e1063-e1069.].

Systemic Administration of Allogeneic Mesenchymal Stem Cells Does Not Halt Osteoporotic Bone Loss in Ovariectomized Rats

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have innate ability to self-renew and immunosuppressive functions, and differentiate into various cell types. They have become a promising cell source for treating many diseases, particular for bone regeneration. Osteoporosis is a common metabolic bone disorder with elevated systemic inflammation which in turn triggers enhanced bone loss. We hypothesize that systemic infusion of MSCs may suppress the elevated inflammation in the osteoporotic subjects and slow down bone loss. The current project was to address the following two questions: (1) Will a single dose systemic administration of allogenic MSCs have any effect on osteoporotic bone loss? (2) Will multiple administration of allogenic MSCs from single or multiple donors have similar effect on osteoporotic bone loss? 18 ovariectomized (OVX) rats were assigned into 3 groups: the PBS control group, MSCs group 1 (receiving 2x106 GFP-MSCs at Day 10, 46, 91 from the same donor following OVX) and MSCs group 2 (receiving 2x106 GFP-MSCs from three different donors at Day 10, 46, 91). Examinations included Micro-CT, serum analysis, mechanical testing, immunofluorescence staining and bone histomorphometry analysis. Results showed that BV/TV at Day 90, 135, BMD of TV and trabecular number at Day 135 in the PBS group were significantly higher than those in the MSCs group 2, whereas trabecular spacing at Day 90, 135 was significantly smaller than that in MSCs group 2. Mechanical testing data didn't show significant difference among the three groups. In addition, the ELISA assay showed that level of Rantes in serum in MSCs group 2 was significantly higher than that of the PBS group, whereas IL-6 and IL-10 were significantly lower than those of the PBS group. Bone histomorphometry analysis showed that Oc.S/BS and Oc.N/BS in the PBS group were significant lower than those in MSCs group 2; Ob.S/BS and Ob.N/BS did not show significant difference among the three groups. The current study demonstrated that systemic administration of allogenic MSCs had no obvious effect on osteoporotic bone loss in OVX rats when using the cells from the same donor; and repeated injection of allogeneic MSCs from different donors might promote bone loss in OVX rats. These findings indicate that despite allogenic MSCs systemic infusion is safe, their administration alone may not be an effective mean for preventing osteoporotic bone loss.

Osteoporosis in the adult solid organ transplant population: underlying mechanisms and available treatment options

The prevention and treatment of osteoporosis is an increasingly important topic in the solid organ transplant (SOT) population. Compared to the general population, these patients are at an elevated risk of developing osteoporosis due to progressive disease, lifelong immunosuppressant therapy, and malnutrition. As patients live longer after transplant, chronic disease management is increasingly more important. Supplementation with calcium and vitamin D is often necessary in the SOT population due to a high incidence of vitamin D deficiency. Bisphosphonate therapy is most commonly used for prevention and treatment of osteoporosis, but therapy can be limited by renal dysfunction which is common in transplant recipients. Alternative agents such as teriparatide and calcitonin have not been shown to provide a significant impact on the rate of fractures in this population. Additionally, denosumab may be a promising treatment option due to its novel mechanism of action, and is currently being studied in renal transplant patients. Timely initiation of supplementation and treatment, and minimizing glucocorticoid exposure prior to and after transplantation will aid in the prevention and proper management of osteoporosis in these patients.

How Do Previous Solid Organ Transplant Recipients Fare After Primary Total Knee Arthroplasty?

INTRODUCTION

Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) has been proven to increase knee outcome scores after solid organ transplantation (SOT), but many authors are concerned about a higher complication rate. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the complication profile of TKA after previous SOT.

METHODS

A search of the entire Medicare database from 2005 to 2011 was performed using International Classification of Disease, version 9, codes to identify 3339 patients who underwent TKA after 1 or more solid organ transplants including the kidney (2321), liver (772), lung (129), heart (412), and pancreas (167). A cohort of 1,685,295 patients served as a control with minimum 2-year follow-up. Postoperative complications at 30-day, 90-day, and overall time points were compared between the 2 cohorts.

RESULTS

Patients with any SOT were younger (age: <65, odds ratio [OR]: 6.58, P < .001), male (OR: 1.88, P < .001), and medically complex (significant increase in 28 of 29 Elixhauser comorbidities, P < .05). There was a significant increase (P < .05) in 11 of 13 (84.6%) recorded postoperative medical complications rates at 90 days. There was a significant increase overall in periprosthetic infection (OR: 2.11, P < .001), periprosthetic fracture (OR: 1.78, P < .001), and TKA revision (OR: 1.36, P < .001). When analyzed by individual organ, heart and lung transplants carried the fewest medical and surgical complications.

CONCLUSION

The results of this study demonstrate that patients with previous SOT who undergo elective primary TKA have more postoperative complications in the global period and at short-term follow-up. Yet, complication profiles by individual organ varied significantly.

Bone disease in post-transplant patients

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Mineral and bone disorders are common problems in organ transplant recipients. Successful transplantation solves many aspects of abnormal mineral and bone metabolism, but the degree of improvement is frequently incomplete. Posttransplant bone disease can affect long-term outcomes as well as increase the likelihood of fracture. In this article, we reviewed the major posttransplant bone diseases and recent advances in treatment strategies.

RECENT FINDINGS

Pretransplant bone disease and immunosuppressants are important risk factors for posttransplant bone disease. Corticosteroid withdrawal may result in minimal or no protection against fractures, with increased risk for acute rejection. Vitamin D analogue and bisphosphonate are frequently used to prevent and treat posttransplant osteoporosis. Posttransplant hyperparathyroidism increases the risk for all-cause mortality and graft loss, but not major cardiovascular events. Cinacalcet was well tolerated and effectively controlled hypercalcemic hyperparathyroidism; however, it did not improve bone mineral density and discontinuation led to parathyroid hormone rebound. Six-month paricalcitol supplementation reduced parathyroid hormone levels and attenuated bone remodeling and mineral loss in case of posttransplant hyperparathyroidism.

SUMMARY

Posttransplant bone diseases present in various forms, including osteoporosis, hyperparathyroidism, adynamic bone disease, and osteonecrosis. Prophylactic and therapeutic approaches to both pretransplant and posttransplant periods should be considered.

Current Status of Research on Osteoporosis after Solid Organ Transplantation: Pathogenesis and Management

Improved survival following organ transplantation has brought to the forefront some long-term complications, among which osteoporosis and associated fractures are the major ones that adversely affect the quality of life in recipients. The pathogenesis of osteoporosis in transplant recipients is complex and multifactorial which may be related to increased bone resorption, decreased bone formation, or both. Studies have shown that the preexisting underlying metabolic bone disorders and the use of immunosuppressive agents are the major risk factors for osteoporosis and fractures after organ transplantation. And rapid bone loss usually occurs in the first 6–12 months with a significant increase in fracture risk. This paper will provide an updated review on the possible pathogenesis of posttransplant osteoporosis and fractures, the natural history, and the current prevention and treatment strategies concerning different types of organ transplantation.

Risk factors associated with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) in patients with atherosclerotic renal artery stenosis: a nationwide population-based analysis

The aim of this study was to investigate the risk factors associated with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) in patients with atherosclerotic renal artery stenosis (ARAS). Information about the study participants was extracted from the National Health Insurance Research Database of Taiwan for the years 1999 through 2011. We conducted this retrospective cohort study of patients with ARAS to identify the potential risk factors associated with long-term renal outcomes. A total of 2184 patients with ARAS were enrolled, of whom 840 had ESRD and were classified as the study group, and 1344 patients who were without ESRD were included in the comparison cohort. After adjusting for related variables, univariable, and multivariable logistic regression analysis showed that ESRD was associated with higher Charlson-comorbidity index (CCI) score (adjusted odds ratio [OR] = 6.78, 95% CI = 4.59-10.0 for CCI = 2; adjusted OR = 20.0, 95% CI = 13.7-29.2 for CCI ≥3), diabetes (adjusted OR = 1.55, 95% CI = 1.24-1.93), hypertension (adjusted OR = 3.66, 95% CI = 2.36-5.66), and age 20 to 49-years old (adjusted OR = 2.14, 95% CI = 1.51-3.03). Moreover, our data showed that renal artery revascularization (RAR) was significantly associated with a lower risk of ESRD in ARAS patients (crude OR = 0.64, 95% CI = 0.50-0.84). Our study is the first to disclose that CCI score was significantly associated with the risk of ESRD in ARAS patients, and comorbid diseases including diabetes mellitus and hypertension significantly affect renal outcomes in patients with ARAS. Of note, our data showed that renal artery revascularization was associated with a lower risk of ESRD in ARAS patients in long-term follow-up.

Increased risk of osteoporosis in patients with depression: a population-based retrospective cohort study

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the relationship between depression and risk of subsequent osteoporosis development.

PARTICIPANTS AND METHODS

A population-based retrospective cohort analysis was conducted using the Longitudinal Health Insurance Database 2000 of Taiwan. We included 32,978 patients in the depression cohort and 131,912 patients in the no-depression cohort between January 1, 1998, and December 31, 2008, and calculated the incidence rates of newly diagnosed osteoporosis. We used Cox proportional hazards models to assess the effects of depression. The Kaplan-Meier method was applied to estimate the cumulative osteoporosis incidence curves.

RESULTS

Patients with depression were 1.30 times more likely to experience osteoporosis than those without depression. The risk was higher for patients with severe depression and mild depression than for those without depression. A greater hazard ratio magnitude was observed in patients aged 35 to 49 years. We also observed a significant decrease in osteoporosis risk in patients with depression treated with antidepressant agents.

CONCLUSION

The incidence of osteoporosis in Taiwan is associated with an a priori depression history. The risk was identified in both men and women, particularly in patients aged 35 to 49 years, and was inversely correlated with antidepressant drug treatment.

Comparison of bone mineral density changes in pediatric thalassemic patients with and without hematopoietic stem cell transplant

OBJECTIVES

Beta thalassemia major is a genetic hemoglobin disorder that affects bone density. The disease leads to deteriorating bone structure but can be treated with hematopoietic stem cell transplant. We aimed to assess bone mineral density changes in pediatric beta thalassemia major patients who had undergone a hematopoietic stem cell transplant compared with similarly affected patients who had not undergone a hematopoietic stem cell transplant.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Forty beta thalassemia major patients, 20 transplant and 20 nontransplant, younger than 16 years of age were enrolled. The mean age of transplant patients was 8.15 years and nontransplant patients was 9.5 years (P = .242). The female:male ratio was 1:1 in both groups. None of the patients reached puberty during this study. Bone mineral density was evaluated in transplant patients before and 1 year after hematopoietic stem cell transplant. Bone mineral density of nontransplant patients also was evaluated 1 year after their initial bone mineral density test. A Norland XR-46 densitometer was used to make all bone mineral density measurements. None of the patients had a z score < -2.

RESULTS

Mean bone mineral density changes in the femur and spine during this study were 0.008 ± 0.075 g/cm2 and 0.048 ± 0.045 g/cm2 in transplant patients and 0.045 ± 0.072 g/cm2 and 0.036 ± 0.058 g/cm2 in nontransplant patients. No significant differences between bone mineral density changes in transplant and nontransplant patients were detected during the study.

CONCLUSIONS

No significant effects on bone mineral density were detected in hematopoietic stem cell transplant pediatric beta thalassemia major patients compared with similarly affected nontransplant patients. Studies of longer duration may be required to identify significant changes in bone mineral density in hematopoietic stem cell transplant patients.