Osteoporosis is rare in children and adolescents. When it does occur, it is usually caused by an underlying medical disorder or by medications used to treat such disorder. This is called secondary osteoporosis. It may also be the result of a genetic disorder such as Osteogenesis Imperfecta (Brittle Bone Disease).
Any systemic disease that a child has may increase his or her risk of having secondary osteoporosis. A systemic disease refers to a disease that affects part or whole of the body.
Children with certain health conditions and/or taking some medications may be at higher risk.
Conditions that increase the risk of osteoporosis:
- Rheumatological conditions like Juvenile Arthritis or Lupus
- Neuromuscular disorders like Cerebral Palsy, Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, Immobilisation
- Endocrine conditions like Hyperthyroidism, Hyperparathyroidism, Cushing's Syndrome,
Delayed Puberty
- Malabsorption Syndromes
- Anorexia Nervosa
- Kidney disease
- Liver disease
Medications that increase the risk of having osteoporosis:
- Some anticonvulsants (e.g. for epilepsy)
- Corticosteroids (e.g. for rheumatoid arthritis, asthma)
Behaviours that increase the risk of having osteoporosis:
- Prolonged inactivity or immobility
- Inadequate nutrition, especially calcium and vitamin D
- Excessive exercise leading to amenorrhoea
You may want to speak to your child's doctor or see a paediatrician specialising in endocrinology to find out if your child has an increased risk.