Screening for osteoporosis in patients with inflammatory bowel diseases: a cross-sectional study.

OBJECTIVE

Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs) can be associated with bone fragility. We aimed to evaluate bone mineral density (BMD) in patients with IBD.

METHODS

In this observational cross-sectional study, we consecutively included patients with IBD without previous diagnosis of low BMD. All patients underwent a standardized evaluation that included laboratory testing, dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry at the lumbar spine and hip to measure BMD and a systematic evaluation by a rheumatologist.

RESULTS

We included 339 patients with IBD; 64% were women, and the median (interquartile range) age was 42 (32-53) years. BMD assessment revealed osteopenia in 115 (34%) patients and osteoporosis in 40 (12%). Multivariable analysis did not identify variables associated with low BMD. After the evaluation by the rheumatologist, vitamin D supplementation was initiated for 153 (45%) patients, and anti-osteoporosis treatment was started for 24 (7%).

CONCLUSION

In this large cohort study, about 46% of patients with IBD had low BMD. Systematic evaluation led to the initiation of treatments in most patients. Altogether, our results promote multidisciplinary care of patients with IBD. Key points • Low bone mass density occurs in 42% of patients with inflammatory bowel diseases. • Age and female sex are associated with low bone mass density. After the evaluation by the rheumatologist, vitamin D supplementation and anti-osteoporosis treatment were initiated in a large number of patients. • A systematic multidisciplinary assessment for bone fragility could lead to better care of patients with inflammatory bowel disease.