Serum cross-linked N-terminal telopeptide of type I collagen for evaluation of renal osteodystrophy in hemodialysis patients.

BACKGROUND

Useful markers of bone resorption are needed for hemodialysis patients with renal osteodystrophy. This study investigated the use of a new immunoassay for cross-linked N-terminal telopeptide of type 1 collagen to assess bone changes in hemodialysis patients.

METHODS

Radial bone mineral density was examined in 178 hemodialysis patients at baseline and after 12 months. Serum levels of N-terminal telopeptide and other markers were measured.

RESULTS

The annual percent change of radial bone mineral density was negatively correlated with the levels of N-terminal telopeptide, intact osteocalcin, tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase, bone-specific alkaline phosphatase, and intact parathyroid hormone. The annual percent change of radial bone mineral density showed a stronger correlation with N-terminal telopeptide levels than with the other markers, except for intact parathyroid hormone. Also, intact parathyroid hormone and N-terminal telopeptide levels showed a stronger correlation than that of either tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase or cross-linked carboxyterminal telopeptide of type 1 collagen with intact parathyroid hormone.

CONCLUSION

Serum N-terminal telopeptide may be the most useful bone resorption marker in renal osteodystrophy and its use combined with bone formation markers may improve the management of this condition.