Osteoporosis represents a prominent cause of morbidity in patients with thalassemia. The delay in sexual maturation, the presence of diabetes and hypothyroidism, the parathyroid gland dysfunction, the progressive marrow expansion, the iron toxicity on osteoblasts, the iron chelators, and the deficiency of growth hormone or insulin growth factors have been identified as major causes of osteoporo...

PURPOSE Using a case-based approach, we review key clinical questions relevant to nurse practitioners (NPs) regarding the screening, assessment, and treatment of patients at risk for osteoporosis and fractures in a Canadian general practice setting. DATA SOURCES A case presentation with relevant questions and answers to guide management of a patient. CONCLUSIONS Osteoporosis is a common con...

Osteoporosis is a highly prevalent condition characterized by decreases in bone mass and microarchitectural alterations. Bone fractures, especially of the hip and vertebrae, are the most burdensome complications of osteoporosis, being associated with high risk of disability, institutionalization and mortality. The detection of osteoporosis relies on the quantification of bone mineral density vi...