Hyperhomocysteinaemia is associated with osteoporosis in patients with Crohn’s disease

Summary Background A high prevalence of osteoporosis is observed in Crohn’s disease. Recent data have shown that homocysteinaemia is an important risk factor in low‐bone mineralization and fracture. Aim To look for an association between homocysteinaemia and low‐bone mineralization in Crohn’s disease patients. Patients and methods Ninety‐two consecutive patients (sex ratio M/F 0.87; mean age: 36.6 ± 13.2 years) were recruited between 2003 and 2005. Bone densitometry was performed on inclusion. The following parameters were analysed: age, sex, Crohn’s Disease Activity Index, duration and extent of Crohn’s disease, smoking status, corticosteroid treatment, immunosuppressive drugs, plasma homocysteine, folate and vitamin B12 concentration. Results The prevalence of a high homocysteine level (>15 µmol/L) was 60%. Osteoporosis and low‐bone mineralization observed in 26 (28%), and 60 (65%) patients, respectively. On a multivariate analysis, associated factors for osteoporosis and low‐bone mineralization were respectively: hyperhomocysteinaemia (OR: 61.4; CI: 95: 23–250; P