Prevention of osteoporosis in cystic fibrosis

Abstract

Purpose of review: The increased life span of patients with cystic fibrosis has lead to the detection of new complications. Osteopenia is present in up to 50% of adult patients with cystic fibrosis, and osteoporosis in 10-34% and can cause a difficult management problem.

Recent findings: In children, defects in bone health become apparent generally at adolescence because of suboptimall bone peak mass achievement. Malnutrition, inflammation, vitamin D and vitamin K deficiency, altered sex hormone production, glucocorticoid therapy, and physical inactivity potentiate poor bone health.

Summary: Monitoring bone mineral density and preventive care of osteoporosis are necessary from childhood to minimize cystic fibrosis-related bone disease in adult cystic fibrosis patients.