Abstract
Glucocorticoid therapy is the most common cause of secondary iatrogenic osteoporosis. The bone loss occurs predominantly due to a decrease in bone formation, although increased bone resorption also occurs. Glucocorticoids induce osteoblast apoptosis and increase osteoclast survival and activity. Most of these effects are mediated through the RANKL/OPG system but perturbations in gonadal hormone activity and calcium balance may also contribute significantly to bone loss. Future therapies in the treatment and prevention of glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis may be targeted at restoring the hormonal and cytokine balance to nullify the apoptotic effect of glucocorticoids on bone forming cells.
Original language | English (US) |
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Pages (from-to) | 212-216 |
Number of pages | 5 |
Journal | Medical and Pediatric Oncology |
Volume | 41 |
Issue number | 3 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - Sep 1 2003 |
Externally published | Yes |
Keywords
- Bone growth
- Glucocorticoids
- Osteoclasts
- Osteoporosis
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Pediatrics, Perinatology, and Child Health
- Oncology
- Cancer Research