Low body mass index and use of corticosteroids, but not cholestasis, are risk factors for osteoporosis in patients with chronic liver disease

Backgroundl Aims: Metabolic bone disease is known to complicate chronic liver disease. In a cross-sectional, controlled study we have studied the prevalence of osteoporosis in patients with various types of chronic liver disease. We also identified risk factors predisposing to osteoporosis in this patient group. Methods: Seventy-two hospitalised patients, 46 females and 26 males, were included. Age- and sex-matched individuals from the background population served as controls. Bone mineral density was measured by dual energy X-ray absorptiometry at the lumbar spine and femoral neck. Results: Bone mineral density was significantly lower in patients with chronic liver disease than in controls at the lumbar spine (Z-score: −0.35 SD±1.36 vs. 0.26 SD±1.19, p