BONE MASS IN ANKYLOSING-SPONDYLITIS

  • 1 October 1986
    • journal article
    • research article
    • Vol. 13  (5) , 932-935
Abstract
To assess bone mass in ankylosing spondylitis (AS) we have measured total body calcium, bone mineral content of the lumbar spine and metacarpal indices in group of patients with AS. Mean total body calcium was reduced by 5.3% (p < 0.05) in 20 patients compared with controls. The mean annual loss of bone, assessed over an 18 month period in 17 patients, was 2.9% (p < 0.001). Compared to controls, bone mineral content was increased by 28% (p < 0.05) in 8 male patients while metacarpal indices were normal in 18 male and female patients. The results of body calcium measurements give support to the hypothesis of a minor increase in bone turnover in AS. The increased bone mineral content in the male patients may relate to syndesmophyte formation.