Favorable effect of immunomodulator therapy on bone mineral density in multiple sclerosis.

BACKGROUND

Osteoporosis is a complication of multiple sclerosis (MS), especially if corticosteroid therapy is given. Little is known about the effect on bone of immunomodulatory therapy (IMT) for MS.

AIM: We sought to evaluate bone mass in patients with MS on IMT.

METHODS

We measured bone mineral density (BMD) by dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) in 37 patients with MS who received IMT. Different IMTs were administered: interferon beta-1a in 70%, interferon beta-1b in 27% and Glatiramer in 3%. High-dose pulse corticosteroid therapy (intravenous methylprednisolone 500 mg) was given to 81% ranging from 1 to 17 courses.

RESULTS

Both mean BMD Z-score at spine of 0.53 (CI, 0.15-0.92; P = 0.0084) and mean BMD Z-score at femur of 0.72 (CI, 0.42-1.01; P < 0.0001) were significantly greater than zero.

CONCLUSIONS

IMT may have a favorable effect on bone in patients with MS even in the presence of pulse steroid therapy.