A randomized controlled trial of calcium with vitamin D, alone or in combination with intravenous pamidronate, for the treatment of low bone mineral density associated with Crohn's disease

Vitamin D deficiency in adult patients with ulcerative colitis: Prevalence and relationship with disease severity, extent, and duration

BACKGROUND

Vitamin D plays a key role in gut immunity and maintenance of the mucosal barrier. Vitamin D deficiency (VDD) worsens ulcerative colitis (UC) and its supplementation ameliorates the disease in mouse models. The prevalence and predictors of VDD in UC are not known.

METHODS

Consecutive patients with UC (n = 80) underwent clinical, endoscopic, and histological evaluation to assess the extent, severity using UC disease activity index (UCDAI) score, and duration of illness. An equal number of age and gender-matched healthy adults without any features of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) living in the same latitude were identified as controls. The serum 25-hydroxy vitamin D₃ level was estimated. The subjects were classified as deficient (< 20 ng/mL), insufficient (20-32 ng/mL), sufficient (32-80 ng/mL), and optimal (> 80 ng/mL) based on vitamin D levels. Chi-square test and Mann-Whitney U test were done to identify factors associated with vitamin D deficiency.

RESULTS

The patients and controls were similar in age and gender (40 ± 11.4 years, 51% male vs. 40 ± 12 years, 51% male; p = 1.000). Median vitamin D levels among patients were lower than the controls (18.1 ng/mL [IQR 14] vs. 32.5 ng/mL [IQR 36]; p < 0.001). Patients were more often VDD (56% vs. 40%) or insufficient (34% vs. 9%) and less often sufficient (9% vs. 40%) or optimal (1% vs. 11%), in contrast to controls (p < 0.001). Median vitamin D levels were lower in those with UCDAI > 6 (15 vs. 21 ng/mL; p = 0.01), having pancolitis (13 vs. 21 ng/mL, p = 0.01), and longer duration of illness > 2 years (13.8 vs. 20.8; p = 0.025). Vitamin D levels showed a negative correlation with frequency of stools (rho = - 0.244, p = 0.05), disease duration (rho = - 0.244, p = 0.007) and UCDAI score (r = - 0.348, p = 0.002).

CONCLUSION

VDD is highly prevalent among patients with UC. Patients with longer disease duration, more severe symptoms, and pancolitis are likely to have lower vitamin D levels.

Vitamins and Minerals in Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Indiscriminate use of multivitamin/mineral supplements in the general population may be misguided, but patients with chronic Inflammatory Bowel Diseases (IBD) should be monitored and compensated for nutritional deficiencies. Mechanistic links between vitamin/mineral deficiencies and IBD pathology has been found for some micronutrients and normalizing their levels is clinically beneficial. Others, like vitamin A, although instinctively desirable, produced disappointing results. Restoring normal levels of the selected micronutrients requires elevated doses to compensate for defects in absorptive or signaling mechanisms. This article describes some aspects of vitamin and mineral deficiencies in IBD, and summarizes pros and cons of supplementation.

Efficacy and safety of medical therapy for low bone mineral density in patients with Crohn disease: A systematic review with network meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Low bone mineral density (BMD) is a frequent complication of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), particularly in patients with Crohn disease (CD). The aim of our study is to determine the efficacy and safety of different drugs used to treat low BMD in patients with CD.

METHODS

PUBMED/MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials were searched for eligible studies. A random-effects model within a Bayesian framework was applied to compare treatment effects as standardized mean difference (SMD) with their corresponding 95% credible interval (CrI), while odds ratio (OR) was applied to compare adverse events with 95% CrI. The surface under the cumulative ranking area (SUCRA) was calculated to make the ranking of the treatments for outcomes.

RESULTS

Twelve randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were eligible. Compared with placebo, zoledronate (SMDs 2.74, 95% CrI 1.36-4.11) and sodium-fluoride (SMDs 1.23, 95% CrI 0.19-2.26) revealed statistical significance in increasing lumbar spine BMD (LSBMD). According to SUCRA ranking, zoledronate (SUCRA = 2.5%) might have the highest probability to be the best treatment for increasing LSBMD in CD patients among all agents, followed by sodium-fluoride (27%). For safety assessment, the incidence of adverse events (AEs) demonstrated no statistical difference between agents and placebo. The corresponding SUCRA values indicated that risedronate (SUCRA = 77%) might be the most safe medicine for low BMD in CD patients and alendronate ranked the worst (SUCRA = 16%).

CONCLUSIONS

Zoledronate might have the highest probability to be the best therapeutic strategy for increasing LSBMD. For the safety assessment, risedronate showed the greatest trend to decrease the risk of AEs. In the future, more RCTs with higher qualities are needed to make head-to-head comparison between 2 or more treatments.

Bone Loss Prevention of Bisphosphonates in Patients with Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of bisphosphonates in improving bone mineral density (BMD) and decreasing the occurrence rate of fractures and adverse events in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

METHODS

Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) which use bisphosphonates in IBD patients were identified in PubMed, MEDLINE database, EMBASE database, Web of Knowledge, and the Cochrane Databases between 1990 and June 2016. People received bisphosphonate or placebos with a follow-up of at least one year were also considered. STATA 12.0 software was used for the meta-analysis.

RESULTS

Eleven randomized clinical trials were included in the meta-analysis. The data indicated that the percentage change in the increased BMD in the bisphosphonates groups was superior to that of the control groups at the lumbar spine and total hip. At the femoral neck, there was no significant difference between the two groups. The incidence of new fractures during follow-up showed significant reduction. The adverse event analysis revealed no significant difference between the two groups.

CONCLUSION

Our results demonstrate that bisphosphonates therapy has an effect on bone loss in patients with IBD but show no evident efficiency at increasing the incidence of adverse events.

Efficacy and safety of bisphosphonates in management of low bone density in inflammatory bowel disease: A meta-analysis

This study aims to determine whether bisphosphonates are safe, as well as effective against bone mineral loss in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). A computerized search of electronic databases from 1966 to 2016 was performed. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were included in this review to evaluate the role of bisphosphonates in the management of osteoporosis in IBD patients. A revised 7-point Jadad scale was used to evaluate the quality of each study. Overall, 13 RCTs and 923 patients met the inclusion criteria of this meta-analysis. The result showed that bisphosphonates decreased bone mass density (BMD) loss at the lumbar spine (P = 0.0002), reduced the risk of new fractures (P = 0.01), and retained the similar adverse events (P = 0.86). Bisphosphonates may provide protection and safety against bone mineral loss in IBD patients.

Treatment of bone loss in osteopenic patients with Crohn's disease: a double-blind, randomised trial of oral risedronate 35 mg once weekly or placebo, concomitant with calcium and vitamin D supplementation

OBJECTIVE

Osteoporosis and fractures are frequently encountered in patients with Crohn's disease. In order to prevent fractures, treatment with bone protecting drugs appears warranted early in the course of bone disease when bone loss is not yet prominent. We therefore aimed to demonstrate a beneficial effect on bone density of the bisphosphonate risedronate in osteopenic Crohn's disease patients.

METHODS

This double-blind, placebo-controlled randomised trial of risedronate with calcium and vitamin D supplementation was performed in osteopenic Crohn's disease patients. Patients were treated for 2 years with follow-up after 3 and after every 6 months. Disease characteristics and activity and bone turnover markers were assessed at all visits; dual x-ray absorptiometry was performed at baseline, 12 and 24 months; radiographs of the spine at baseline and 24 months.

RESULTS

Of 132 consenting patients, 131 were randomised (67 placebo and 64 risedronate). Patient characteristics were similar in both groups, although the risedronate group was slightly heavier (body mass index 24.3 vs 23.0 kg/m(2)). Bone mineral density at lumbar spine increased 0.04 g/cm(2) on average in the risedronate group versus 0.01 g/cm(2) in the placebo group (p=0.007). The mean increase in total hip bone mineral density was 0.03 versus 0.01 g/cm(2), respectively (p=0.071). Fracture prevalence and incidence were similar. Change of T-scores and concentrations of bone turnover markers were consistent with a beneficial effect of risedronate when compared with placebo. The effect of risedronate was primarily demonstrated in the first 12 months of treatment. No serious unexpected suspected adverse events were observed.

CONCLUSIONS

A 24-month treatment course with risedronate 35 mg once weekly, concomitant with calcium and vitamin D supplementation, in osteopenic Crohn's disease patients improved bone density at lumbar spine. NTR 163 Dutch Trial Register.

Efficacy and safety of medical therapy for low bone mineral density in patients with inflammatory bowel disease: a meta-analysis and systematic review

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are at risk for osteoporosis and fracture. However, the efficacy of medical treatments for osteoporosis in increasing bone mineral density (BMD) in patients with IBD has not been well characterized.

METHODS

We conducted a meta-analysis and systematic review of controlled trials to evaluate the efficacy and safety of medical therapies used for low BMD in patients with IBD (Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, or indeterminate colitis). We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, Google scholar, the University Hospital Medical Information Network (UMIN) Clinical Trials Registry, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials for studies that assessed the efficacy of medical treatment for low BMD in patients with IBD. We also manually searched abstracts from scientific meetings and bibliographies of identified articles for additional references. The primary outcome assessed was changes in BMD at the lumbar spine. We also collected data on hip BMD, numbers of new fractures, and adverse effects. Data were pooled by using random-effects models and by mixed-effects analysis for primary aims, when subgroup analysis by individual drug was possible.

RESULTS

We analyzed data from 19 randomized controlled studies; 2 used calcium and vitamin D as therapies, 13 used bisphosphonates, 4 used fluoride, 1 used calcitonin, and 1 used low-impact exercise. The pooled effect of bisphosphonates was greater than that of controls in increasing BMD at the lumbar spine (standard difference in means, 0.51; 95% confidence interval, 0.29-0.72) and hip (standard difference in means, 0.26; 95% confidence interval, 0.04-0.49) with comparable tolerability, and the risk of vertebral fractures was reduced. Fluoride increased lumbar spine BMD, but its ability to reduce risk of fracture was unclear. There was no evidence that the other interventions increased BMD.

CONCLUSIONS

On the basis of a meta-analysis, bisphosphonate is effective and well tolerated for the treatment of low BMD in patients with IBD and reduces the risk of vertebral fractures. There are insufficient data to support the efficacy of calcium and vitamin D, fluoride, calcitonin, or low-impact exercise. However, the small number of randomized controlled trials limited our meta-analysis.

Health care for osteoporosis in inflammatory bowel disease: unmet needs in care of male patients?

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Osteoporosis is a frequent complication of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). It may be related to IBD itself or to its therapy. In this study, the quality of care regarding diagnosis and treatment of osteoporosis was examined.

METHODS

In this retrospective, monocentric study 293 consecutive patients with IBD (98 ulcerative colitis, 195 Crohn's disease) were included. Information on age, gender, weight, nicotine abuse, course, disease pattern and medication was assessed, results of dual X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA-scan) were evaluated.

RESULTS

DEXA-scan was performed in 174 patients (59 male, 115 female). Bone mineral density (BMD) was impaired in 38.5% of these patients. Male patients were diagnosed more often with osteopenia or osteoporosis than females (55.9% vs. 29.6%, p=0.03) and had a risk of bone disease comparable to postmenopausal women. Additionally, duration of corticosteroid treatment and IBD were identified as risk factors for osteoporosis. Follow up DEXA-scan demonstrated an overall deterioration of BMD in patients with normal baseline results.

CONCLUSIONS

While in general, women are considered at higher risk for osteoporosis, male patients had a higher risk of impaired BMD, especially when under treatment with corticosteroids. The high incidence of reduced BMD supports the recommendation to screen patients with IBD at an early stage of disease, although a possible bias has to be considered for patients at a tertial referral centre for IBD. Patients with normal baseline DEXA-scan were still at risk to develop bone disease and it seems advisable to monitor patients with IBD for reduced BMD continually.

Vitamin D and Crohn's disease in the adult patient: a review

Crohn's disease (CD) is characterized as a chronic immune-mediated inflammatory disorder of the gastrointestinal tract. Current consensus surrounding the cause of the disease suggests a complex interplay between genetic susceptibility, the intestinal microbiome and environmental factors, leading to the aberrant Th1 and Th17 immune cell mediated response. Vitamin D deficiency is common in CD patients, and long-standing deficiency has been associated with reduced bone mineral density (BMD). Accumulating evidence now suggests that in addition to maintaining skeletal integrity, vitamin D also plays an integral role in regulating the general immune response, a function employed via its genomic actions on the vitamin D receptor (VDR). The VDR is expressed in all immune cells and both directly and indirectly targeted by the bioactive form of vitamin D, 1,25-Dihydroxyvitamin D (1,25[OH]2D). Impaired regulation or deficiency of the vitamin has been linked to the promotion of self-reactive T cell development, loss of immune tolerance to self-structures, and experimental colitis in animal models, whereas the subsequent administration of the vitamin in these models resulted in the improvement of immune-mediated symptoms. In addition, low vitamin D has been associated with disease activity in CD patients, and supplementation appears to be beneficial in improving clinical scores and reducing inflammation. Therefore, the primary aims of this article were to review the molecular evidence supporting the immunoregulatory roles of vitamin D and its supplementation in the CD patient, based on existing literature. The physiological processes, accepted serum concentration values, and its well-recognized role in bone health were also summarized.

High vitamin D3 diet administered during active colitis negatively affects bone metabolism in an adoptive T cell transfer model

Decreased bone mineral density (BMD) represents an extraintestinal complication of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Vitamin D₃ has been considered a viable adjunctive therapy in IBD. However, vitamin D₃ plays a pleiotropic role in bone modeling and regulates the bone formation-resorption balance, depending on the physiological environment, and supplementation during active IBD may have unintended consequences. We evaluated the effects of vitamin D₃ supplementation during the active phase of disease on colonic inflammation, BMD, and bone metabolism in an adoptive IL-10-/- CD4⁺ T cell transfer model of chronic colitis. High-dose vitamin D₃ supplementation for 12 days during established disease had negligible effects on mucosal inflammation. Plasma vitamin D₃ metabolites correlated with diet, but not disease, status. Colitis significantly reduced BMD. High-dose vitamin D₃ supplementation did not affect cortical bone but led to a further deterioration of trabecular bone morphology. In mice fed a high vitamin D₃ diet, colitis more severely impacted bone formation markers (osteocalcin and bone alkaline phosphatase) and increased bone resorption markers, ratio of receptor activator of NF-κB ligand to osteoprotegrin transcript, plasma osteoprotegrin level, and the osteoclast activation marker tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (ACp5). Bone vitamin D receptor expression was increased in mice with chronic colitis, especially in the high vitamin D₃ group. Our data suggest that vitamin D₃, at a dose that does not improve inflammation, has no beneficial effects on bone metabolism and density during active colitis or may adversely affect BMD and bone turnover. These observations should be taken into consideration in the planning of further clinical studies with high-dose vitamin D₃ supplementation in patients with active IBD.

Increase in bone mineral density in strictly treated Crohn's disease patients with concomitant calcium and vitamin D supplementation

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Decreased bone mineral density (BMD) is common in Crohn's disease (CD) patients. This paper reports on the prevalence of decreased BMD in a referral cohort study of CD-patients next to the change of BMD over time in relation with CD-associated clinical characteristics.

METHODS

205 CD patients of a referral hospital were enrolled between January1998-January 2010 when measurement of BMD by dual X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) was available. Follow-up DXA scan was performed in subjects with known risk factors besides Crohn indicative for low BMD. Treatment of CD patients was according to a protocol which is comparable to the current (inter)national guidelines. In osteopenic patients, supplemental vitamin D (800 IU) and Calcium (500-1000 mg) were prescribed.

RESULTS

Mean BMD at baseline was 0.97 ± 0.16 gram/cm(2) in lumbar spine and 0.87 ± 0.12 gram/cm(2) in the total hip. At baseline, higher age and low Body Mass Index (BMI), were negatively correlated with BMD. Eighty-four patients underwent a second BMD assessment with a median interval period of 4 years (IQR 3-6). A mean annual increase of +0.76% (95%CI: -2.63%; +3.87%) in lumbar spine and +0.43% (95%CI: -2.65% ; +1.11%) in total hip was observed.

CONCLUSIONS

Higher age, male sex, low BMI, and a higher age at diagnosis of CD were associated with low BMD. Follow-up of BMD in CD patients showed a contraintuitive small increase of BMD at lumbar spine and total hip in CD patients only using supplemental vitamin D and calcium next to strict treatment of CD.

Diagnosis and therapeutic management of extra-intestinal manifestations of inflammatory bowel disease

Extra-intestinal manifestations (EIMs) are reported frequently in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and may be diagnosed before, concurrently or after the diagnosis of IBD. EIMs in IBD may be classified based on their association with IBD disease activity. The first group has a direct relationship with the activity of the bowel disease and includes pauciarticular arthritis, oral aphthous ulcers, erythema nodosum and episcleritis. The second group of EIMs appears to follow an independent course from the underlying bowel disease activity and include ankylosing spondylitis and uveitis. The third group includes EIMs that may or may not be related to intestinal inflammation, such as pyoderma gangrenosum and probably primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC). Genetic susceptibility, aberrant self-recognition and immunopathogenic autoantibodies against organ-specific cellular antigens shared by the colon and extra-colonic organs may contribute to the pathogenesis and development of these EIMs. The use of biological agents in the IBD armamentarium has expanded the treatment options for some of the disabling EIMs and these agents form the cornerstone in managing most of the disabling EIMs. PSC is one of the most common hepatobiliary manifestations associated with IBD in which no clear treatment options exist other than endoscopic therapy and liver transplantation. Future research targeting the pathogenesis, early diagnosis and treatment of these EIMs is required.

Diagnosis and therapeutic management of extra-intestinal manifestations of inflammatory bowel disease

Extra-intestinal manifestations (EIMs) are reported frequently in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and may be diagnosed before, concurrently or after the diagnosis of IBD. EIMs in IBD may be classified based on their association with IBD disease activity. The first group has a direct relationship with the activity of the bowel disease and includes pauciarticular arthritis, oral aphthous ulcers, erythema nodosum and episcleritis. The second group of EIMs appears to follow an independent course from the underlying bowel disease activity and include ankylosing spondylitis and uveitis. The third group includes EIMs that may or may not be related to intestinal inflammation, such as pyoderma gangrenosum and probably primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC). Genetic susceptibility, aberrant self-recognition and immunopathogenic autoantibodies against organ-specific cellular antigens shared by the colon and extra-colonic organs may contribute to the pathogenesis and development of these EIMs. The use of biological agents in the IBD armamentarium has expanded the treatment options for some of the disabling EIMs and these agents form the cornerstone in managing most of the disabling EIMs. PSC is one of the most common hepatobiliary manifestations associated with IBD in which no clear treatment options exist other than endoscopic therapy and liver transplantation. Future research targeting the pathogenesis, early diagnosis and treatment of these EIMs is required.

The efficacy and safety of bisphosphonates for osteoporosis or osteopenia in Crohn's disease: a meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Crohn's disease impacts the bone health of patients and results in a high prevalence of low bone mineral density (BMD) disease such as osteoporosis and osteopenia. Bisphosphonates can reduce bone loss by inhibiting bone resorption.

AIM

To assess the effectiveness and safety of bisphosphonates for osteoporosis or osteopenia in Crohn's disease.

METHODS

A literature search included PubMed, EMBASE, the Science Citation Index, and the Cochrane Library was conducted to identify studies up to March, 2012. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing bisphosphonates with placebo or no intervention for osteoporosis or osteopenia in adult patients with Crohn's disease were analyzed.

RESULTS

Five RCTs involving 423 participants were included. All patients received daily calcium and vitamin D supplementation. Overall, bisphosphonates improved hip BMD at 12 months (n = 193, MD = 0.99, 95 % CI: 0.14-1.84) compared with placebos or no intervention. No significant differences of spine BMD at both 12 months (n = 193, MD = 1.78, 95 % CI: -0.99 to 4.55) and 24 months (n = 231, MD = 0.70 %, 95 % CI: -0.48 to 1.88), hip BMD at 24 months (n = 231, MD = 0.25 %, 95 % CI: -0.65 to 1.15), new vertebral fractures (n = 117, RD = -0.01, 95 % CI: -0.08 to 0.05) or adverse events (n = 422, RR = 1.03, 95 % CI: 0.71-1.49) between bisphosphonates groups and control groups were noted. Subgroup analyses of participants treated with corticosteroid in the preceding year found no difference between two groups.

CONCLUSIONS

There was no evidence to support the use of bisphosphonates for osteoporosis or osteopenia in Crohn's disease. More randomized controlled clinical trials assessing the effects of bisphosphonates are needed.

Micronutrient deficiencies in inflammatory bowel disease: from A to zinc

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) has classically been associated with malnutrition and weight loss, although this has become less common with advances in treatment and greater proportions of patients attaining clinical remission. However, micronutrient deficiencies are still relatively common, particularly in CD patients with active small bowel disease and/or multiple resections. This is an updated literature review of the prevalence of major micronutrient deficiencies in IBD patients, focusing on those associated with important extraintestinal complications, including anemia (iron, folate, vitamin B12) bone disease (calcium, vitamin D, and possibly vitamin K), hypercoagulability (folate, vitamins B6, and B12), wound healing (zinc, vitamins A and C), and colorectal cancer risk (folate and possibly vitamin D and calcium).

Bisphosphonates: focus on inflammation and bone loss

Bisphosphonates are pharmacological compounds that have been used for the prevention and treatment of several pathological conditions including osteoporosis, primary hyperparathyroidism, osteogenesis imperfecta, and other conditions characterized by bone fragility. Many studies have been performed to date to analyze their effects on inflammation and bone remodelling and related pathologies. The aim of this review is, starting from a background on inflammatory processes and bone remodelling, to give an update on the use of bisphosphonates, outlining the possible side effects and proposing new trends for the future. Starting from a brief introduction on inflammation and bone remodelling, we collect and analyze studies involving the use of bisphosphonates for treatment of inflammatory conditions and pathologies characterized by bone loss. Selected articles, including reviews, published between 1976 and 2011, were chosen from Pubmed/Medline on the basis of their content. Bisphosphonates exert a selective activity on inflammation and bone remodelling and related pathologies, which are characterized by an excess in bone resorption. They improve not only skeletal defects, but also general symptoms. Bisphosphonates have found clinical application preventing and treating osteoporosis, osteitis deformans (Paget's disease of bone), bone metastasis (with or without hypercalcaemia), multiple myeloma, primary hyperparathyroidism, osteogenesis imperfecta, and other conditions that feature bone fragility. Further clinical studies involving larger cohorts are needed to optimize the dosage and length of therapy for each of these agents in each clinical field in order to be able to maximize their properties concerning modulation of inflammation and bone remodelling. In the near future, although "old" bisphosphonates will reach the end of their patent life, "new" bisphosphonates will be designed to specifically target a pathological condition.

Risedronate improves bone mineral density in Crohn's disease: a two year randomized controlled clinical trial

BACKGROUND

Patients with Crohn's disease have an increased frequency of osteopenia and osteoporosis. This randomized, controlled, double-blind study assessed the efficacy of risedronate versus placebo in treating low bone mineral density (BMD) in patients with Crohn's disease.

METHODS

88 Crohn's disease outpatients with BMD T-score<-1.0 by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry were randomly assigned to one of two treatment groups for the two year study duration: one group received risedronate 35 mg weekly while another received placebo. Both groups received daily calcium (Ca; 500 mg) and vitamin D (D; 400 IU) supplementation. Percent change in BMD relative to baseline was compared between the two therapies at 12 and 24 months.

RESULTS

Using intent-to-treat analysis, at 12 months, risedronate+Ca+D increased BMD, relative to baseline, more than placebo+Ca+D in the femoral trochanter (1.4±3.4% vs -0.1±3.1%; p=0.03) and total hip (1.1±2.7% vs -0.1±2.5%;p=0.04). This trend in greater BMD continued for the 24 month duration of the study. There was no difference between the two treatment groups for changes in spine BMD. Subgroup analysis revealed that risedronate+Ca+D resulted in significantly better improvement in femoral trochanter BMD in non-smokers (p=0.01), males (p=0.01), those with a history of corticosteroid use in the preceding year (p=0.01), and current users of immunosuppressants (p=0.04).

CONCLUSIONS

Risedronate, in addition to daily calcium and vitamin D supplementation, is superior to calcium and vitamin D alone in improving femoral trochanter and total hip BMD in patients with Crohn's disease.

[Clinical practice guidelines for evaluation and treatment of osteoporosis associated to endocrine and nutritional conditions. Bone Metabolism Working Group of the Spanish Society of Endocrinology]

OBJECTIVE

To provide practical recommendations for evaluation and treatment of osteoporosis associated to endocrine diseases and nutritional conditions.

PARTICIPANTS

Members of the Bone Metabolism Working Group of the Spanish Society of Endocrinology, a methodologist, and a documentalist.

METHODS

Recommendations were formulated according to the GRADE system (Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation) to describe both the strength of recommendations and the quality of evidence. A systematic search was made in MEDLINE (Pubmed), using the following terms associated to the name of each condition: AND "osteoporosis", "fractures", "bone mineral density", and "treatment". Papers in English with publication date before 18 October 2011 were included. Current evidence for each disease was reviewed by two group members, and doubts related to the review process or development of recommendations were resolved by the methodologist. Finally, recommendations were discussed in a meeting of the Working Group.

CONCLUSIONS

The document provides evidence-based practical recommendations for evaluation and management of endocrine and nutritional diseases associated to low bone mass or an increased risk of fracture. For each disease, the associated risk of low bone mass and fragility fractures is given, recommendations for bone mass assessment are provided, and treatment options that have shown to be effective for increasing bone mass and/or to decreasing fragility fractures are listed.

Special considerations for women with IBD

Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), namely Crohn disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC), are common in Western society. Because at least half of the patients suffering from these diseases are women, it is important that physicians are aware of their gender-specific needs. There are multiple important concerns for women with UC and CD including issues of body image and sexuality, menstruation, contraception, screening for cervical cancer, matters related to menopause and hormone replacement therapy, osteoporosis, and the overlap seen between IBS and IBD. In this article, we have addressed these important, non-pregnancy-related issues faced by women with IBD.

Osteoporosis and inflammation

Several inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, inflammatory bowel disease, celiac disease, cystic fibrosis and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease have been associated to bone resorption. The link between osteoclast, macrophage colony stimulating factor and pro-inflammatory cytokines, especially tumor necrosis factor-alpha and interleukin-1 explain the association between inflammation and osteoporosis. These diseases are related to osteoporosis and high fracture risk independent of other risk factors common to inflammatory diseases such as reduced physical activity, poor nutritional status, hypovitaminosis D, decrease in calcium intake and glucocorticoid treatment. Erythrocyte sedimentation rate and C-reactive protein should always be performed, but the indication about when to perform the densitometry test should be analyzed for each disease. Bisphosphonates are nowadays the best choice of therapy but new medications such as denosumab, IL-1 receptor antagonist, and TNF-alpha antibody have risen as new potential treatments for osteoporosis secondary to inflammation.

A single dose of intravenous zoledronate prevents glucocorticoid therapy-associated bone loss in acute flare of Crohn's disease, a randomized controlled trial

OBJECTIVES

To assess the effectiveness and safety of zoledronate (ZOL) in preventing glucocorticoid therapy-associated bone loss in patients with acute flare of Crohn's disease (CD) in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial.

METHODS

Forty CD patients starting a glucocorticoid therapy (60 mg prednisolone per day) for acute flare (CD activity index (CDAI) >220) were randomized to compare the effect of ZOL (4 mg intravenous, n=20) or placebo (n=20) on change in lumbar bone mineral density (BMD). All patients received calcium citrate (800 mg) and colecalciferol (1,000 IU) daily. Dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) of the lumbar spine (L1-L4) was performed at baseline and day 90. Follow-up examinations at day 1/7/14/30 and 90 included laboratory tests and adverse event/serious adverse events reports.

RESULTS

Thirty-six patients were available for per-protocol analysis. With placebo (n=18), a decrease in BMD was seen (T-score: -0.98 ± 0.8, day 0 and -1.25 ± 0.77, day 90, P=0.06), with ZOL (n=18) BMD increased (-1.15 ± 1.02, day 0 and -0.74 ± 1.09, day 90, P=0.03). The change in BMD under placebo (-0.26 ± 0.21) vs. ZOL (+0.41 ± 0.19) was highly significant (P=0.006). In all, 14 out of 18 patients with ZOL had an increase in BMD (+0.64 ± 0.48), 12 of 18 with placebo a decrease (-0.50 ± 0.39). Changes of clinical findings and laboratory results of inflammation (leukocytes, platelets, and C-reactive protein) were the same in- and between-groups throughout the study. With ZOL, serum bone degradation marker β-Cross-Laps decreased. Study medication was safe and well tolerated.

CONCLUSIONS

ZOL is effective in preventing glucocorticoid therapy-induced bone loss in patients with acute flare of CD and should be considered whenever a glucocorticoid therapy is started in CD patients.

Bones and Crohn's: no benefit of adding sodium fluoride or ibandronate to calcium and vitamin D

AIM

To compare the effect of calcium and cholecalciferol alone and along with additional sodium fluoride or ibandronate on bone mineral density (BMD) and fractures in patients with Crohn's disease (CD).

METHODS

Patients (n =148) with reduced BMD (T-score < -1) were randomized to receive cholecalciferol (1000 IU) and calcium citrate (800 mg) daily alone(group A, n = 32) or along with additional sodium fluoride (25 mg bid) (group B, n = 62) or additional ibandronate (1 mg iv/3-monthly) (group C, n = 54). Dual energy X-ray absorptiometry of the lumbar spine (L1-L4) and proximal right femur and X-rays of the spine were performed at baseline and after 1.0, 2.25 and 3.5 years. Fracture-assessment included visual reading of X-rays and quantitative morphometry of vertebral bodies (T4-L4).

RESULTS

One hundred and twenty three (83.1%) patients completed the first year for intention-to-treat (ITT) analysis. Ninety two (62.2%) patients completed the second year and 71 (47.8%) the third year available for per-protocol (PP) analysis. With a significant increase in T-score of the lumbar spine by +0.28 ± 0.35 [95% confidence interval (CI): 0.162-0.460, P < 0.01], +0.33 ± 0.49 (95% CI: 0.109-0.558, P < 0.01), +0.43 ± 0.47 (95% CI: 0.147-0.708, P < 0.01) in group A, +0.22 ± 0.33 (95% CI: 0.125-0.321, P < 0.01); +0.47 ± 0.60 (95% CI: 0.262-0.676, P < 0.01), +0.51 ± 0.44 (95% CI: 0.338-0.682, P < 0.01) in group B and +0.22 ± 0.38 (95% CI: 0.111-0.329, P < 0.01), +0.36 ± 0.53 (95% CI: 0.147-0.578, P < 0.01), +0.41 ± 0.48 (95% CI: 0.238-0.576, P < 0.01) in group C, respectively, during the 1.0, 2.25 and 3.5 year periods (PP analysis), no treatment regimen was superior in any in- or between-group analyses. In the ITT analysis, similar results in all in- and between-group analyses with a significant in-group but non-significant between-group increase in T-score of the lumbar spine by 0.38 ± 0.46 (group A, P < 0.01), 0.37 ± 0.50 (group B, P < 0.01) and 0.35 ± 0.49 (group C, P < 0.01) was observed. Follow-up in ITT analysis was still 2.65 years. One vertebral fracture in the sodium fluoride group was detected. Study medication was safe and well tolerated.

CONCLUSION

Additional sodium fluoride or ibandronate had no benefit over calcium and cholecalciferol alone in managing reduced BMD in CD.

Zoledronic acid for the treatment of osteopenia in pediatric Crohn's disease

BACKGROUND

Pediatric patients with Crohn's disease often have low bone mass (osteopenia) for age. No randomized, placebo-controlled trials using zoledronic acid have ever been performed in this population. The objective of this study was to assess the efficacy of zoledronic acid in children with Crohn's disease and osteopenia.

METHODS

A double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled design was used. Thirteen adolescents received either a single intravenous dose of zoledronic acid (0.066 mg/kg, max 4 mg, n= 7) or saline placebo (n= 6). The primary outcome was change in lumbar spine bone mineral density (LSBMD) z-score at 6 months. Secondary outcomes included bone markers and adverse events.

RESULTS

At 6 months, the change in LSBMD z-score was significantly higher in the zoledronic acid group compared to placebo (0.7 vs 0.1, P < 0.001). Volumetrically adjusted LSBMD z-score also significantly increased in the treated group. This significant difference persisted until 12 months. With zoledronic acid, urinary C-telopeptide excretion decreased by 50% at 6 months and remained suppressed at 12 months (P= 0.02), but no changes were observed with placebo. Both groups had similar adverse events which included transient fever, arthralgias, and nausea (3/7 treated, 2/6 placebo, P= NS).

CONCLUSIONS

In this study, zoledronic acid demonstrated a significant increase in LSBMD at 6 and 12 months following a well-tolerated infusion.

Inflammatory bowel diseases, celiac disease, and bone

The article summarizes the current knowledge on the pathogenesis, clinical aspects and treatment of bone problems in the major inflammatory bowel diseases (Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis) and celiac disease. It presents the physiological relationship between intestine and bone as well as the alterations determined by disease-disrupted intestinal integrity. Two hypotheses about the pathogenetic mechanisms of bone metabolism derangements and bone loss are discussed: the classical one, that indicates calcium malabsorption as the main culprit, and the new one, that emphasizes the role of inflammation. The article summarizes the available epidemiological data about osteopenia/osteoporosis and fragility fractures in these chronic intestinal diseases and presents the state-of-the-art treatment options.

Nutritional considerations in pediatric inflammatory bowel disease

Nutrition is a critical part of the management of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) in children and adults. Malnutrition and micronutrient deficiencies are common at the time of diagnosis and may persist throughout the course of the disease. There are a number of similarities with regards to the nutritional complications and the approach to nutritional management in IBD in both children and adults, but there are also important differences. Growth failure, pubertal delay and the need for corticosteroid-sparing regimens are of higher importance in pediatrics. In the pediatric population, exclusive enteral nutrition may be equivalent to corticosteroids in inducing remission in acute Crohn's disease, and may have benefits over corticosteroids in children. Adherence with exclusive enteral nutrition is better in children than in adults. Iron deficiency anemia is an important problem for adults and children with IBD. Intravenous iron administration may be superior to oral iron supplementation. Ensuring adequate bone health is another critical component of nutritional management in IBD, but guidelines for screening and therapeutic interventions for low bone mineral density are lacking in children.

Extraintestinal manifestations of inflammatory bowel disease: epidemiology, diagnosis, and management

Abstract Extraintestinal manifestations occur rather frequently in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), e.g. ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn's disease (CD). The present paper provides an overview of the epidemiology, clinical characteristics, diagnostic process, and management of rheumatic, metabolic, dermatologic (mucocutaneous), ophthalmologic, hepatobiliary, hematologic, thromboembolic, urinary tract, pulmonary, and pancreatic extraintestinal manifestations related to IBD. Articles were identified through search of the PubMed and Embase databases, the Cochrane Library, and the web sites of the European Agency for the Evaluation of Medicinal Products (EMEA) and the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) (cut-off date October 2009). The search terms 'Crohn's disease', 'inflammatory bowel disease', or 'ulcerative colitis' were combined with the terms 'adalimumab', 'anemia', 'arthritis', 'bronchiectasis', 'bronchitis', 'cutaneous manifestations', 'erythema nodosum', 'extraintestinal manifestations', 'hyperhomocysteinemia', 'infliximab', 'iridocyclitis', 'lung disease', 'ocular manifestations', 'osteomalacia', 'pancreatitis', 'primary sclerosing cholangitis', 'renal stones', 'sulfasalazine', 'thromboembolism', and 'treatment'. The search was performed on English-language reviews, practical guidelines, letters, and editorials. Articles were selected based on their relevance, and additional papers were retrieved from their reference lists. Since some of the diseases discussed are uncommon, valid evidence of treatment was difficult to obtain, and epidemiologic data on the rarer forms of extraintestinal manifestations are scarce. However, updates on the pathophysiology and treatment regimens are given for each of these disorders. This paper offers a current review of original research papers and randomized clinical trials, if any, within the field and makes an attempt to point out practical guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of various extraintestinal manifestations related to IBD.

Osteoporosis in inflammatory bowel disease

Half of all patients with inflammatory bowel disease show a significant reduction of their bone mass during the course of their chronic inflammatory disease. In contrast to women with postmenopausal osteoporosis these patients are much younger and a significant subgroup develops vertebral fractures which are mostly asymptomatic. The activity of the chronic inflammatory disease and the steroid treatment leads to bone loss predominantly through the TNFα-driven osteoprotegerin system. Clinical useful genetic markers to identify patients at risk for fractures have not been developed so far. Long-term clinical remission leads in most patients to normalisation of the bone density. Patients with reduced bone density should be substituted with calcium and vitamin D. Patients with vertebral fractures should receive bisphosphonates.

Vitamin D status and bone density in recently diagnosed inflammatory bowel disease: the Manitoba IBD Cohort Study

OBJECTIVES

Bone mineral density (BMD) is usually normal at the time of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) diagnosis. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the role of vitamin D metabolism in recently diagnosed IBD.

METHODS

Adult subjects with recently diagnosed IBD (median 4 yr) were recruited from the University of Manitoba IBD Research Registry into the Manitoba IBD Cohort Study. Baseline BMD and serum 25-hydroxy vitamin D (25OHD) were measured in a nested subgroup of 101 subjects of whom 94 had repeat BMD measurements 2.3 +/- 0.3 yr later.

RESULTS

Only a minority (22 [21.8%]) of recently diagnosed IBD participants had optimal serum 25OHD levels (75 nmol/L or greater). Serum 25OHD was positively correlated with baseline BMD for the lumbar spine, total hip, and total body (all P < 0.05). MANOVA confirmed significant between-group differences in baseline T-scores when vitamin D status was categorized according to serum 25OHD quartile (P < 0.05). Gain in total body BMD between the baseline and follow-up DXA scans was positively correlated with 25OHD (r = 0.20, P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Poorer vitamin D status correlates with lower baseline BMD at all measurement sites and better vitamin D status is correlated with a gain in total body BMD. Early optimization of vitamin D may play an important role in preventing IBD-related bone disease.

Basic and clinical aspects of osteoporosis in inflammatory bowel disease

Low bone mineral density and the increased risk of fracture in gastrointestinal diseases have a multifactorial pathogenesis. Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) has been associated with an increased risk of osteoporosis and osteopenia and epidemiologic studies have reported an increased prevalence of low bone mass in patients with IBD. Certainly, genetics play an important role, along with other factors such as systemic inflammation, malnutrition, hypogonadism, glucocorticoid therapy in IBD and other lifestyle factors. At a molecular level the proinflammatory cytokines that contribute to the intestinal immune response in IBD are known to enhance bone resorption. There are genes influencing osteoblast function and it is likely that LRP5 may be involved in the skeletal development. Also the identification of vitamin D receptors (VDRs) and some of its polymorphisms have led to consider the possible relationships between them and some autoimmune diseases and may be involved in the pathogenesis through the exertion of its immunomodulatory effects during inflammation. Trying to explain the physiopathology we have found that there is increasing evidence for the integration between systemic inflammation and bone loss likely mediated via receptor for activated nuclear factor kappa-B (RANK), RANK-ligand, and osteoprotegerin, proteins that can affect both osteoclastogenesis and T-cell activation. Although glucocorticoids can reduce mucosal and systemic inflammation, they have intrinsic qualities that negatively impact on bone mass. It is still controversial if all IBD patients should be screened, especially in patients with preexisting risk factors for bone disease. Available methods to measure BMD include single energy x-ray absorptiometry, DXA, quantitative computed tomography (QCT), radiographic absorptiometry, and ultrasound. DXA is the establish method to determine BMD, and routinely is measured in the hip and the lumbar spine. There are several treatments options that have proven their effectiveness, while new emergent therapies such as calcitonin and teriparatide among others remain to be assessed.

Effect of calcium and vitamin D supplementation on bone mineral density in children with inflammatory bowel disease

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of calcium and vitamin D2 supplementation on bone mineral density (BMD) in children with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

This was an open-label, prospective study conducted over a 12-month period. Seventy-two patients were divided into 2 groups based on lumbar spine areal BMD (L2-4 aBMD). Patients with an L2-4 aBMD z score of -1 or higher were assigned to the control group (n = 33; mean age, 11.0 +/- 3.5 years; 20 boys). Patients with an L2-4 aBMD of less than -1 (n = 39; mean age 11.8 +/- 2.5 years; 25 boys) were allocated to the intervention group and received 1000 mg of supplemental elemental calcium daily for 12 months (n = 19) or supplemental calcium for 12 months and 50,000 IU of vitamin D2 monthly for 6 months (n = 20).

RESULTS

The 2 groups differed in L2-4 aBMD z scores (intervention, -1.9 +/- 0.6; control, -0.2 +/- 0.6; P < 0.001) and volumetric L2-4 BMD (vBMD; intervention, 0.29 +/- 0.04; control, 0.33 +/- 0.06; P < 0.001). After 1 year of therapy, the control and intervention groups had similar changes in height z scores, L2-4 aBMD, L2-4 vBMD (z score change, L2-4 aBMD: control 0.2 +/- 0.6 [n = 21], intervention 0.4 +/- 0.6; P = 0.4 [n = 26]; z score change, L2-4 vBMD: control 0.1 +/- 0.4, intervention 0.2 +/- 0.6; P = 0.74). The changes in these parameters were similar between patients who had received calcium only or calcium plus vitamin D.

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest that, in children with IBD, supplementation of calcium and vitamin D does not accelerate accrual in L2-4 BMD.

A double-blind placebo-controlled study of intravenous clodronate for prevention of steroid-induced bone loss in inflammatory bowel disease

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Osteoporosis is common in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Corticosteroids induce a rapid and important bone loss. Clinical trials have shown oral bisphosphonates to effectively prevent steroid-induced bone loss. However, patients with IBD have been excluded from most of these studies because of potential digestive adverse events. Clodronate is a non-amino-bisphosphonate available in intravenous form without expected digestive (as oral bisphosphonates) or proinflammatory (as amine bisphosphonates) side effects. Our aim was to assess the efficacy of intravenous clodronate in preventing steroid-induced bone loss.

METHODS

A 12-month, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial was conducted in IBD patients beginning a steroid therapy. Sixty-seven patients (median disease duration, 38 mo; range, 1-240 mo) were randomized to receive one infusion per 3 months of either intravenous clodronate (900 mg, n = 33) or placebo. All the patients received calcium (1 g/day) and vitamin D (800 IU/day). The main outcome was the change in lumbar bone mineral density (BMD) between baseline and 1 year. Secondary outcomes included change in femoral neck BMD and adverse events.

RESULTS

After 1 year, there was no change in BMD in the clodronate group, neither at the spine (-0.2%, not significant) nor at the femoral neck (2.3%, NS). In contrast, there was a significant decrease in lumbar spine (-2.0%, P = .0018) and femoral neck (-1.7%, P = .045) BMD in the placebo group. Tolerance to treatment was good.

CONCLUSIONS

Intravenous clodronate is effective in the prevention of bone loss induced by steroids in patients with IBD.

The bisphosphonate alendronate improves the damage associated with trinitrobenzenesulfonic acid-induced colitis in rats

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

The nitrogen-containing bisphosphonates are drugs used successfully in the treatment of osteoporosis. They act inhibiting farnesyl diphosphate synthase. This mechanism may also produce anti-inflammatory effects. The therapeutic activity of alendronate was tested in vivo using a model of inflammatory bowel disease.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

The trinitrobenzenesulfonic acid model of colitis in the rat was used. Rats were treated orally with alendronate and its efficacy compared with that of oral sulphasalazine or vehicle, starting 2 h after colitis induction. The status of the animals was assessed 5 days later.

KEY RESULTS

Alendronate treatment (25 or 75 mg kg(-1) day(-1)) resulted in a decrease in the colonic damage score and loss of body weight (at 25 mg kg(-1) day(-1) only). This was associated to a dramatic reduction in the mRNA levels of interleukin 1 beta (IL-1 beta), monocyte chemoattractant protein 1 (MCP-1) and interleukin 1 receptor antagonist (IL-1 ra). The magnitude of the beneficial effect was comparable to that of sulphasalazine (at a 6-20 fold higher dose). Thus sulphasalazine post-treatment reduced the mRNA levels of IL-1 beta/IL-1 ra and MCP-1 to the same extent as alendronate and additionally lowered colonic alkaline phosphatase activity, but failed to affect body weight loss or colonic damage score. Alendronate failed to exert beneficial effects when administered intraperitoneally.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

Oral but not intraperitoneal alendronate significantly protected the colon in experimental rat colitis. Inflammatory bowel disease patients might benefit from exposure to oral alendronate.

Report on the vitamin D status of adult and pediatric patients with inflammatory bowel disease and its significance for bone health and disease

Vitamin D is a hormone responsible for calcium homeostasis and essential for bone mineralization throughout the lifespan. Recent studies revealed a high prevalence of hypovitaminosis D among healthy adults and children, especially in the northern hemisphere, and a link between this condition and suboptimal bone health. Moreover, maintenance of what are today considered optimal vitamin D stores has not been achieved throughout the year with currently recommended daily intake for vitamin D. The prevalence of hypovitaminosis D is even higher among adults with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), a situation that may be caused by malabsorption and gastrointestinal losses through an inflamed intestine, among other factors. In children with IBD, existing reports of vitamin D status are scarce. The relationship between vitamin D status and bone health, although well-established in healthy adults and children, has been controversial among adults and children with IBD, and the reasons for this have not been investigated to date. Studies in animal models of colitis and in vitro human studies support a role of vitamin D in the regulation of the immune system of the gut and the potential of vitamin D and its derivatives as therapeutic adjuncts in the treatment of IBD. This role of vitamin D has not been investigated with translational studies to date. Currently, there are no guidelines for monitoring vitamin D status, treating hypovitaminosis D, and maintaining optimal vitamin D stores in patients with IBD. These tasks may prove particularly difficult because of malabsorption and gastrointestinal losses that are associated with IBD.

Inflammatory bowel diseases as secondary causes of osteoporosis

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), comprising Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, is associated with an increased risk of osteoporosis and bone fractures. Initial studies suggested very high rates of osteoporosis in IBD, but more recent studies have suggested that bone mineral density (BMD) is often normal in patients with IBD and typically changes little over time. Nonetheless, IBD is associated with an increased risk of fractures. Doctors managing patients with IBD must consider a variety of risk factors, not just BMD measurements, in assessing fracture risk. Advances have been made in exploring the pathogenesis of osteoporosis in IBD. The evolution of knowledge regarding receptor for activated factor of nuclear factor kappaB (RANK), its ligand RANKL, and osteoprotegerin (OPG), which serves as a decoy receptor, has enhanced the understanding of both osteoporosis and T-cell immunobiology. Recent clinical studies in patients with IBD have revealed that serum OPG levels may be elevated and inflamed intestinal tissue secretes increased amounts of OPG. It is suspected that OPG levels are elevated as a counterregulatory response to low BMD, as serum OPG levels in IBD have been found to be inversely associated with BMD. Finally, in animal models of IBD, exogenous OPG has reversed both the osteopenia and the enterocolitis, suggesting that it may have a therapeutic role in human IBD.

Prevention and treatment of osteoporosis in inflammatory bowel disease

The following are guidelines for evaluation and consideration for treatment of patients with inflammatory bone disease (IBD) after bone mineral density (BMD) measurements. The Crohn's & Colitis Foundation of America (CCFA) has indicated that its recommendations are intended to serve as reference points for clinical decision-making, not as rigid standards, limits, or rules. They should not be interpreted as quality standards.

Bone density in young males with recently diagnosed inflammatory bowel disease

OBJECTIVES

Patients with inflammatory bowel disease are at increased risk of developing osteopenia and osteoporosis. Our study was designed to determine the degree of decreased bone density in steroid naïve young male patients with inflammatory bowel disease and to unmask possible risk factors.

METHODS

Before the initiation of any treatment in young male patients aged 26 +/- 4.8 years with inflammatory bowel disease, ultrasound bone density measurement at the right calcaneous was performed using a Lunar Achilles plus device. Stiffness Index and T-score were measured. We also performed an ultrasound bone density measurement at right calcaneous in healthy age- and sex-matched controls.

RESULTS

Nine out of 32 patients with inflammatory bowel disease had osteopenia or osteoporosis (approximately 28%). Of controls, two individuals had osteopenia (approximately 7%). There was a positive correlation between T-score and body mass index, but not between T-score and age in patients with inflammatory bowel disease. There was a statistically significant difference in T-score between patients with disease duration>6 months and those with disease duration<6 months (P=0.032), but not between the patients with Crohn's disease compared with the patients with ulcerative colitis.

CONCLUSION

Steroid naïve young male patients with inflammatory bowel disease have lower bone density values than healthy controls. According to our findings, duration of disease above 6 months and low body mass index are major risk factors for low bone density in these patients. Bone density measurement should be performed in all patients with inflammatory bowel disease in an early stage of the disease.

Intravenous pamidronate for pain relief in recent osteoporotic vertebral compression fracture: a randomized double-blind controlled study

INTRODUCTION

We performed a randomized, double-blind, controlled clinical trial comparing intravenous pamidronate and placebo for pain relief in recent osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures (VCF).

METHODS

Patients suffered from recent (<21 days), painful, osteoporosis-related VCF. They were randomized to receive daily intravenous infusions of either placebo or 30 mg pamidronate for three consecutive days (total pamidronate: 90 mg). The main criterion for efficacy was improvement in standing pain on a 100-mm visual analogical scale (VAS) at day 7. Secondary criteria were standing pain at days 3 and 30; supine pain at days 3, 7, and 30; patients' overall assessment of improvement; mobility index; and number of "20% responders" and "50% responders" (respectively, 20% and 50% improvement in standing pain at days 7 and 30). Statistical analysis with non-parametric tests was carried out on an intention to treat basis.

RESULTS

Thirty-two patients were enrolled in the study; 16 were given placebo and 16 pamidronate. Thirty-one patients were evaluated at day 7 and 26 patients at day 30. VAS pain decreased significantly in both groups at day 7 (placebo -23 mm, pamidronate -42 mm, p<0.01). The difference in pain scores between groups was -23.25 mm (confidence interval (CI) [-42.3; -4.2], p=0.018) at day 7 and -26 mm at day 30 (p=0.03), in favor of pamidronate. At day 7, there were 4 versus 12 "50% responders," respectively, in the placebo and in the pamidronate groups (likelihood ratio: 8.372; p=0.004) and 9 versus 14 "20% responders" (likelihood ratio: 4.038; p=0.044). At day 30, there were 5 versus 10 "50% responders," respectively, in the placebo and in the pamidronate groups, and 7 versus 11 "20% responders." Patients' overall assessment of improvement at day 7 was 37+/-26 mm in the placebo group and 59+/-30 mm in the pamidronate group (p=0.019), and 42+/-26 mm and 72+/-21 mm at day 30 (p=0.07). The two groups did not differ significantly at days 7 and 30 for supine pain, Schober index, or finger-ground distance. No significant adverse reaction related to treatment occurred.

CONCLUSION

Pamidronate provides rapid and sustained pain relief in patients with acute painful osteoporotic VCF and is well tolerated. Further investigations are needed to better define the place of pamidronate in the management of painful recent osteoporotic collapse.

Risk for Osteoporosis and Antiresorptive Therapies in Patients with Crohn's Disease

Background:

The risk of osteoporosis is greater in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) because of several related risk factors such as the prolonged use of corticosteroids, the malabsorption of calcium and vitamin D following small-bowel disease or small-bowel resections, and the inflammatory process resulting from the illness. A reduction in bone mineral density (BMD) has been reported in 30–75% of patients with IBD (Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis). An evaluation of the risk factors of osteoporosis should be performed to identify those in need of antiresorptive drug therapies (ART) and/or calcium and vitamin D supplements.

Objective:

To determine whether patients with Crohn's disease at risk for osteoporosis or already having decreased BMD were identified as such and treated with appropriate therapy.

Methods:

A cross-sectional study was performed among 54 white patients with Crohn's disease who attended a gastroenterology specialized clinic between January and March 2002. All patients with Crohn's disease having an outpatient medical visit were asked to participate in the study. Patients who agreed to the study were questioned for Crohn's disease activity index (CDAI) and osteoporosis risk factors such as nutrition, lifestyle, and corticosteroid therapy. Serum bone-specific markers and nutritional status were assessed. BMD test of the lumbar vertebrae (L2–L4) and the nondominant hip were assessed with dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry if the participants did not have a BMD test in the year prior to the study. ART and calcium/vitamin D use were assessed through a questionnaire and on community pharmaceutical drug services in the 2 year period prior to the evaluation.

Results:

Mean age and CDAI severity score were 41.5 years and 145, respectively. None of the patients was evaluated for BMD in the year prior to the study. Osteopenia at the nondominant hip and/or lumbar vertebrae was seen in 29 patients. Eighty-two percent of patients with a T score under −2 SD had not been exposed to ART; 84% of patients with more than 4 risk factors for osteoporosis and a T score less than −1.5 SD had not received ART. Moreover, 88% of patients with a T score less than −1.5 SD and receiving corticosteroid therapy had not been treated with ART.

Conclusions:

The presence of osteoporosis risk factors and osteopenia had not been recognized and treated in our population. Adequate osteoporosis management should be implemented in patients with Crohn's disease to reduce the occurrence of osteoporotic fractures.

Effect of a convenient single 90-mg pamidronate dose on biochemical markers of bone metabolism in patients with acute spinal cord injury

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVE

To describe the biochemical and adverse effects of a convenient single 90 mg pamidronate dose in patients with acute spinal cord injury (SCI) and compare these effects with those observed in a previous similar study using a 30 mg/d x 3-day pamidronate dosing regimen.

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective cohort study.

SETTING

University-based rehabilitation center in New York City.

METHODS

A total of 32 patients with SCI were evaluated for biochemical response and adverse events associated with pamidronate therapy. All patients were screened at or near admission for acute rehabilitation, received calcium (1,000 mg daily) and calcitriol (0.25 micrg daily) therapy daily, and on day 4, received a single dose of pamidronate, 90 mg by intravenous infusion, over 4 hours. Serum calcium and phosphate levels were closely monitored, and 2 weeks after pamidronate, biochemical bone markers were re-evaluated.

RESULTS

Responses of biochemical markers of bone resorption (N-telopeptide and 24-hour urinary calcium excretion) to pamidronate 90 mg were consistent with an antiresorptive effect, although less than that observed with a 30 mg/d x 3-day pamidronate dosing regimen. The frequency of hypocalcemia was greater, and hypophosphatemia was less than the 30 mg/d x 3-day pamidronate dosing regimen. Fever was more frequent (78%) with the 90-mg single dose of pamidronate compared with the 30 mg/d x 3-day pamidronate dosing regimen (20%).

CONCLUSIONS

Single-dose pamidronate 90 mg is effective at reducing biochemical markers of bone hyperresorption in patients with acute SCI but is associated with a greater incidence of fever compared with a 30 mg/d x 3-day dosing regimen.

Maintenance infliximab treatment is associated with improved bone mineral density in Crohn's disease

OBJECTIVES

Diminished bone mineral density (BMD) is a recognized complication of Crohn's disease (CD). The mechanisms underlying bone loss are unclear but may include a direct effect of inflammatory cytokines related to disease activity. Because tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha) plays a central role in the pathogenesis of CD inflammation, we evaluated the effect on BMD of maintenance treatment with infliximab in patients with CD.

METHODS

BMD of the lumbar spine (L2-L4) and proximal left femur (neck and trochanter) were measured at baseline and 1 yr in 46 CD patients treated with infliximab (5 mg/kg) at 6-8 wk intervals for 1 yr. Thirteen patients received concurrent prednisone at a mean dose of 10 mg/day (range: 5-15).

RESULTS

At baseline, reduced BMD (T-score <or= 1) occurred in 43% of patients at the lumbar spine and 46% at the left femur. Between baseline and 1 yr, mean BMD increased at the lumbar spine by 2.4%+/- 0.7% (p= 0.002), at the femoral trochanter by 2.8%+/- 1.2% (p= 0.03), and at the femoral neck by 2.6%+/- 0.7% (p= 0.001). BMD gain at the lumbar spine and the left femur between the groups without and with osteopenia were not different. Changes in BMD were not correlated with concurrent corticosteroid therapy, calcium supplementation, or changes in C-reactive protein (CRP).

CONCLUSIONS

Maintenance treatment with infliximab improves BMD in patients with CD and this effect is independent of corticosteroid administration. The BMD response after infliximab suggests that TNF-alpha plays a role in the bone loss associated with CD.

Efficacy of risedronate administration in osteoporotic postmenopausal women affected by inflammatory bowel disease

Patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) have frequently a bone mineral density (BMD) significantly lower than age-matched healthy subjects. The low BMD observed in IBD patients is related also to a higher incidence of bone fractures. In this prospective randomized study we evaluated the effect of 1-year risedronate administration on bone mass and turnover, and on vertebral fractures in osteoporotic postmenopausal women with IBD in remission. Ninety osteoporotic postmenopausal women were randomized to receive oral risedronate 35 mg/week (risedronate group) or placebo tablets (placebo group; one tab/week). The duration of treatment was 12 months. At entry and after treatment, lumbar spine and hip BMD, and serum osteocalcin (OC) and urinary deoxypyridinoline/creatinine ratio (DPD-Cr) levels were evaluated. Vertebral fractures were assessed from thoracic and lumbar lateral and anterior-posterior spinal radiographs taken at baseline, and from lateral spinal radiographs taken at the end of the study. At study entry, no difference between groups was also detected in BMD and in bone turnover markers. At the end of the study, lumbar spine, trochanter and femoral neck BMD was significantly ( p <0.05) higher in comparison with baseline in the risedronate group, whereas a significant ( p <0.05) decrease was observed in the placebo group. For the same visit, a significant ( p <0.05) difference in lumbar spine, trochanter and femoral neck BMD was detected between groups. After 12-month follow-up, serum OC and urinary DPD-Cr levels were significantly ( p <0.05) lower and higher in comparison with basal values in risedronate and placebo group, respectively. At the same time, a significant ( p <0.05) difference in serum OC and urinary DPD-Cr levels was observed between groups. Throughout the study, the incidence of vertebral fractures was significantly ( p <0.05) lower in the risedronate group than in the placebo group (12.5% vs 34.1%). The relative risk (RR) to develop a new vertebral fracture after 1 year of risedronate administration was of 0.36 (95% confidence interval, 0.14-0.85). In conclusion, risedronate administration is an effective anti-osteoporotic treatment in osteoporotic postmenopausal women with IBD in remission.

[Cyclic intravenous pamidronate in treatment of osteoporosis]

OBJECTIVE

To assess the efficacy and tolerability of cyclic intravenous pamidronate therapy in women with severe osteoporosis.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Bone mineral density (BMD) measurement was performed by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry using LUNAR DPX-L device. Slow intravenous infusion regimens of pamidronate (30 mg) every three months were used in treatment of 240 women, in addition to supplemental Ca and vitamin D. Bone mineral density was measured from lumbar spine 1 year later (120 mg of pamidronate) in 195 women and 2 years later (240 mg of pamidronate) in 29 women. The placebo group included 63 women treated only with calcium and vitamin D.

RESULTS

The average age of 240 women with severe osteoporosis was 61.2 +/- 9.5. All were postmenopausal, except for two of them. Their mean age at the onset of menopause was 46.2 +/- 5.6. Mean duration of menopause was 15.7 +/- 8.1. After 1 year of therapy, bone mineral density increased from 0.781 g/cm2 to 0.83 7 g/cm2 (p < 0.001), the mean increase bone mass was 7.2% (p < 0.0001). After 2 years, bone mineral density increased to 0.844 g/cm2, the improvement was 8.1% from baseline (p < 0.001). Bone mineral density in the placebo group, after one year, significantly increased (p = 0.046) from 0.966 g/cm2 to 1.004 g/cm2, the improvement was 3.9%. However, after two years, bone mineral density decreased to 0.973 g/cm2, and compared with baseline this change was 0.7% and not significant (p > 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Pamidronate prevented further decrease of BMD in our patients with severe osteoporosis and also increased BMD in these patients. This safe and efficient drug is well tolerated.

Therapy Insight: osteoporosis in inflammatory bowel disease—advances and retreats

There is a discrepancy between the high rates of reduced bone mineral density (BMD) reported in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and the relatively low fracture rates observed in population-based studies. When fractures occur, they are most common among the elderly IBD population. It has become clear that BMD is but one of several important factors to be considered when assessing fracture risk. Ideally, BMD should be assessed selectively, as opposed to assessing this measure in all IBD patients simply because they carry an IBD diagnosis. Preventing bone loss should begin with an attempt to limit corticosteroid-induced bone loss. This can be done by using the minimum effective prednisolone dose, substituting budesonide when appropriate, administering other steroid-sparing immunomodulators, or by prescribing additional agents that enhance bone health. The administration of calcium and vitamin D appears to maintain or enhance bone mass. Bisphosphonates are of unclear additional benefit to the majority of patients who are at low fracture risk. Although more data are required to understand the best strategy to prevent fractures, a greater appreciation of the role of selective BMD testing and the utility of simple therapeutic strategies (such as calcium and vitamin D supplements) is emerging.

Randomized trial of etidronate plus calcium and vitamin D for treatment of low bone mineral density in Crohn's disease

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Crohn's disease causes an increase in osteopenia and osteoporosis. This study assessed the efficacy of adding etidronate to calcium and vitamin D supplementation for treatment of low bone mineral density in Crohn's disease.

METHODS

One hundred fifty-four patients with Crohn's disease with decreased bone mineral density, determined by using dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry, were randomly assigned to receive etidronate (400 mg orally) or not for 14 days; both groups were then given daily calcium (500 mg) and vitamin D (400 IU) supplementation for 76 days. This cycle was repeated 8 times during a period of 24 months. Biochemical characteristics and bone mineral densities were assessed at 6, 12, and 24 months.

RESULTS

After 24 months bone mineral density significantly increased from baseline in both the etidronate- and the non-etidronate-treated groups (both groups receiving calcium and vitamin D supplementation) at the lumbar spine (P < .001), ultradistal radius (P < .001), and trochanter (P = .004) sites, but not at the total hip. The increase in bone mineral density was similar in each treatment group. No bone mineral density differences were found when groups were analyzed according to gender, corticosteroid use, bone mineral density at baseline, or age.

CONCLUSIONS

Low bone mineral density is frequently associated with Crohn's disease. Supplementation with daily calcium and vitamin D is associated with increases in bone mineral density. The addition of oral etidronate does not further enhance bone mineral density.