The thyroid and osteoporosis.
Increasingly sophisticated tests of thyroid function have indicated that minor degrees of hyperthyroidism are common, especially in patients taking thyroxine (T(4)) therapy. Several recent reports have suggested that such patients have reduced bone density as a consequence of their hyperthyroidism. Further studies are required to determine whether these changes are found in all age groups and both sexes and whether they are clinically relevant in terms of risk of osteoporotic fractures. Meanwhile, it is prudent to avoid excessive doses of thyroid hormones for patients requiring replacement therapy.
Franklyn
J A
JA
Department of Medicine, University of Birmingham, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TH, UK.
Sheppard
M C
MC