Bone mineral density assessed by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry in patients with viral or alcoholic compensated cirrhosis. A prospective study

Background/aim: Cirrhosis is considered as a risk factor for osteoporosis whose prevalence is poorly known. The aim was to assess prospectively bone mineral density (BMD) in patients with alcoholic or viral compensated cirrhosis. Methods: From 2006 to 2008, patients with viral or alcoholic compensated cirrhosis had BMD assessment by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. The prevalence of osteopenia (-2.5 SD < T-score < -1 SD) and osteoporosis (T-score <= -2.5 SD), and the influence of age, gender and aetiology of cirrhosis were assessed using univariate and multiple regression analysis. Results: One hundred and nine patients were studied (72 men, 55.3 +/- 11.4 years and 37 women, 65.2 +/- 11.0); with HBV (n = 35), HCV (n = 43), or alcoholic cirrhosis (n = 31). At the lumbar spine, 25 patients had osteopenia and 12 had osteoporosis. At the femoral site, 23 had osteopenia and 4 had osteoporosis. Female gender had an independent decreased effect on the total BMD. Conclusions: The prevalence of osteoporosis was up to 11% at the lumbar spine, greater in women independently of age, without significant difference according to the aetiology of cirrhosis. (C) 2011 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.