Osteoporosis is described as decreased bone density, changes of the bone structure and increased frequency of bone fractures. It is the most common bone disorder associated with metabolic diseases. Some authors in the 1960-70s started to question the association between osteoporosis and diabetes mellitus. Since then several connections has been found, scientist worldwide are on the way to find the reason why patients suffering from diabetes mellitus develop osteoporosis earlier than other people.

IGF-1 is supposed to act as a growth factor on bone cells, increases the release of other hormones that play role in normal bone turnover. The level of IGF-1 and IGF-1 receptors decreases with age, which leads to decreased bone density. IL-6 level is found to be elevated in type-1 diabetic patients, but the connection between IL-6 and osteoporosis is under examination. Advanced glycation end products may also affect bone turnover, worsening new bone formation.

Several examinations showed that bone mineral density stars to decline in teenaged type 1 diabetic patients leading to lower peak bone mass, finally resulting in osteoporosis earlier than in non-diabetic people. Bone structure is affected in type 2 diabetic patients also, but bone mineral density increases in these cases, which can delay the diagnosis of osteoporosis.

The largest international studies performed to examine anti-osteoporotic agents showed that these medications are also effective for treating diabetic patients.

Hulló, Daniella MD
hulloda@gmail.com
ERZSÉBET Kórház-Rendelőintézet
Hódmezővásárhely, Hungary

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