ESPE Abstracts

Backgrounds and objectives: Low bone mass density is an important problem in survivors of childhood cancers. The aim of this study is to determinate the influence of factors on bone mass density (BMD) and the prevalence of abnormal bone turnover.

Materials and methods: The evaluation was performed in 67 patients (64.18% boys and 35.82% girls) at least 1 year after therapy of solid tumours, aged 4–27 years (median 12.67). The following parameters were assessed: BMD (z-score), level of PTH, IGF1 SDS, height SDS, BMI SDS. The relationships between different factors were examined.

Results: The following disorders were found: BMD (mean −0.52±1.29) with a value of <−2 in 8.96% patients, <−1, −2> at 20.89%; level of PTH decreased in 13.11%, increased in 4.92%; IGF1 SDS decreased in 8.93%; increased in 3.57%, overweight or obesity in 26.15%. Moreover, group with weight and/or height deficiency (20% of the study group) reached a lower average BMD than the rest of patients (avg. −1.56±2.05 vs avg. −0.25±0.9; P=0,033) and lower IGF1 SDS value (avg. −0.91±0.90 vs 0.11±1.20; P=0.01). No such difference was found in PTH levels (P=0.35). Positive correlations for the entire study group between BMD and IGF1 SDS (r=0.39, P<0.01), BMD and level of PTH (r=0.27, P=0.036), BMD and height SDS (r=0.44 P<0.01), BMD and BMI SDS (r=0.25, P=0.042) were found.

Conclusion: Disorders of bone mineral substrate are multifactorial. Patients with weight and/or height deficiency may be more likely to lose bone mass as a result of treatment. Disorders of bone mineral density can also be a problem in paediatric patients, especially after anti-cancer therapy.