Glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis

Abstract

Prolonged glucocorticoids administration is the most common cause of secondary osteoporosis. It is estimated that 30% to 50% of chronic glucocorticoids users experience vertebral or hip fractures. The highest bone loss (up to 30% in some studies) is observed in the first six months of treatment. Only a minority of patients who take chronic glucocorticoids receive optimal osteoporosis diagnosis, prevention, and/or treatment. The aim of this paper is to present the pathophysiology of glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis, as well as some guidelines on diagnostic, preventive and therapeutic strategies for this disorder in an effort to promote the greater awareness of it.