Risk Factors for First and Recurrent Fractures among Kidney Transplant Recipients

Introduction: Kidney transplantation is associated with increased risk of bone fracture. Current literature reports widely variable fracture burden and contains limited data on risk factors for recurrent fractures. Methods: The incidence of all and major osteoporotic fractures (hip, forearm, thoracolumbar, and proximal humerus) were assessed. The risk factors for first and recurrent fractures among 1285 Canadian kidney transplant recipients transplanted between January 1, 2004, and December 31, 2013 were also identified. Results: The 10-year cumulative incidence of all fractures and major osteoporotic fractures in this population was 27.1% (95% CI: 22.5, 32.4) and 17.8% (95% CI: 13.4, 23.5), respectively. On multivariable analysis, female sex (HR = 1.64 [95% CI: 1.20, 2.26]), history of fracture (HR = 1.54 [95% CI: 1.12, 2.11]), and pretransplant diabetes (HR = 1.85 [95% CI: 1.29, 2.65]) were recipient factors found to increase the risk for any first fracture posttransplant. These risk factors persist in analysis with the time origin 3-months posttransplant, where transplant age (HR = 1.01 [95% CI: 1.00, 1.03]) and increased time on pretransplant dialysis (HR = 1.06 [95% CI: 1.00, 1.12]) also emerge as risk factors for first fracture. On multivariable shared frailty model analysis, increased risk of recurrent fractures was associated with recipient female sex (HR = 1.74 [95% CI: 1.21, 2.51]) and history of diabetes (HR = 1.76 [95% CI: 1.17, 2.66]). Discussion: The results suggested that some risk factors for first fracture may not inform risk of recurrent fractures. As such, fracture risk should be assessed accordingly to optimize long-term care and implement preventive measures.

Automated summary

Kidney transplant recipients have a higher risk of fracture, and female sex, history of fracture, and pretransplant diabetes are risk factors for first fracture. In addition, transplant age and increased time on pretransplant dialysis are also associated with first fracture. Recurrent fracture risk is associated with recipient female sex and history of diabetes.