[Osteoporosis in elderly patients].

Osteoporosis is defined by an abnormal high loss of bone mineral. This loss leads to fractures of vertebral bodies as of the femoral neck with dramatic consequences. Therefore it is necessary to regard osteoporosis as a disease rather than normal aging process. Diagnosis of osteoporosis is based on clinical examination and measurement of bone-mineral density. Beyond life-style changing interventions pharmacological treatment in a stepwise approach is recommended. Supplementation with Vitamin D and calcium is the mainstay of therapy with individual addition of bisphosphonates or other substances. The specific ways for decision making are exemplified with special regard to their individual advantages and disadvantages.