Osteoporosis in premenopause. When are screening and treatment prudent?

Abstract

Osteoporosis is considered a disorder of postmenopausal women because bone mineral loss and accompanying fragility fractures are common in this group. However, certain premenopausal women are also at risk for osteoporosis. Because of a lack of screening and treatment guidelines for premenopausal women, it can be difficult to determine whether a low bone mineral density correlates with a disease such as osteoporosis and to predict the potential risk of a fracture and formulate the correct course of action. In this article, Dr Derk identifies high-risk groups, presents an approach to judicious screening, and recommends prevention and treatment strategies.