Risk factors for bone loss in chronic active hepatitis and primary biliary cirrhosis.

BACKGROUND

Data on risk factors for bone loss in chronic active hepatitis (CAH) and primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) are scanty and/or conflicting.

METHODS

Bone mineral density (BMD) in the distal forearm was measured using single-photon absorptiometry in 39 patients with CAH and 32 patients with PBC. We also attempted to identify risk factors for bone loss by means of a questionnaire and through a wide range of biochemical analyses.

RESULTS

In the CAH patients BMD is inversely related to the duration of steroid treatment and to age at menarche. In the PBC patients there was a strong correlation between BMD and serum gastrin concentrations.

CONCLUSIONS

Bone loss in CAH is to some extent explained by steroid treatment and delayed menarche. Bone loss in PBC may be reduced by increased calcitonin secretion induced by gastrocalcin.