Bone mass in rheumatoid arthritis

E.J.J.A. Kroot, R.F.J.M. Laan

Department of Rheumatology, University Medical Center Nijmegen, The Netherlands.

ABSTRACT
Osteoporosis is a common finding in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Increased rates of bone loss have been observed, especially in the first year of the disease, in patients with active inflammation and low levels of physical activity and in those using glucocorticoids. This bone loss is responsible for increased rates of vertebral and hip fractures.

Key words
Bone mass, rheumatoid arthritis, bone mineral density, fractures, disease activity, physical activity, glucocorticoids.

Please address correspondence and reprint request to: Roland F.J.M. Laan, Associate Professor of Rheumatology, University Medical Center Nijmegen, Department of Rheumatology, P.O. Box 9101, 6500 HB Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
E-mail: R.Laan@reuma.azn.nl
Clin Exp Rheumatol 2000; 18 (Suppl. 21): S12-S15.
© Copyright Clinical and Experimental Rheumatology 2000.