A long-term trajectory of bone mineral density in childhood cancer survivors after discontinuation of treatment: retrospective cohort study

Low bone mineral density (BMD) was diagnosed in 24% of childhood cancer survivors (CCS), whereas very low BMD was relatively uncommon at 8%. We suggest that low BMD in CCS may become alleviated over time. Stem cell transplantation, radiotherapy, and underweight were the strongest independent predictors of decreased BMD. Purpose Childhood cancer survivors (CCS) are at risk of premature bone loss, although published studies are inconsistent. The objective of this study was to evaluate the prevalence and pattern of low bone mineral density (BMD) in short- and long-term CCS, and to determine clinical factors affecting skeleton after anticancer treatment. Methods This retrospective study was conducted in a cohort of 326 children and young adult CCS (147 females) who completed anticancer treatment. BMD was determined by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA). Low BMD was defined as a Z-score <= - 1.0, and the very low BMD as a Z-score <= - 2.0. Additionally, the changes in BMD over time were studied in 123 CCS who had been re-examined by DXA during follow-up. Results Median age at diagnosis was 7.27 years (range, 4.4-10.6); median time between end of treatment and DXA was 6.12 (range, 4.0-22.0). Low BMD was found in 24% of CCS, while very low BMD was relatively uncommon (8%). Based on multivariate analysis, the following were significantly associated with low BMD at the follow-up: hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (OR 3.13, 95% CI 1.02-9.63), head and neck radiotherapy (OR 2.54, 95% CI 1.32-4.90), and body weight below the standard reference (OR 3.57, 95% CI 1.24-10.23). The time-related trajectory showed an improvement (BMDLS) or stabilization (BMDTB) in Z-scores values. Conclusion These data based on serial DXA measurements, encompassing a long-lasting observation period, show that CCS may not be at risk of premature bone loss in young adulthood. However, it is unknown how the scenario for skeletal mass is until the CCS will achieve older or postmenopausal age.

Automated summary

Low bone mineral density (BMD) was diagnosed in 24% of childhood cancer survivors (CCS), with very low BMD relatively uncommon at 8%. Factors such as stem cell transplantation, radiotherapy, and being underweight were associated with decreased BMD. Data from serial DXA measurements suggest that CCS may not be at risk of premature bone loss in young adulthood, but the long-term effects on skeletal mass remain unclear until older age.