Prevention and treatment of glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis in daily dermatologic practice.

BACKGROUND

Systemic glucocorticoids (GCs) are often needed to treat dermatologic patients. The long-term use of GCs, however, is associated with potentially severe side-effects. GC-induced osteoporosis (GIO) is one of the most serious complications, but the risk of the occurrence of GIO seems to be generally underestimated.

AIM: To provide an update of the recent advances in the prevention of GIO in dermatologic practice.

METHODS

Review of the literature and several European and US guidelines up to August 2007.

RESULTS

Data regarding the prevention and treatment of GIO are limited and guidelines for the prevention of GIO are not fully consistent.

CONCLUSION

The prophylaxis of osteoporosis needs to be started early during treatment with GCs. Calcium and vitamin D supplements in all patients on systemic GCs and bisphosphonates in patients who take GCs for more than 3 months are practical and effective measures.