A 70 years old female is on treatment withAlendronate for 7 years for osteoporosis. Now she complains of pain in right thigh'at is the next investigation to be performed?
Ans. b. X-ray The pain in right thigh in a 70 years old female, who is on treatment with alendronate for 7 years for osteoporosis might be due to femoral shaft fracture. Plain X-rays showed a characteristic picture consisting of a transverse or sho oblique fracture line, lateral coical thickening, and medial spiking. Spontaneous femoral shaft fracture after long-term alendronate: Alendronate is used as first-line treatment for osteoporosis in postmenopausal women worldwide. The evidence suppoing its benefit in reducing the risk of fragility fracture among this high-risk group is well established. Due to its mechanism of action, there were concerns about potential reduction in bone turnover, repair of microdamage and hence reduced bone toughness and increased risk of fractures with long-term use. Plain X-rays: Plain X-rays showed a characteristic picture consisting of a transverse or sho oblique fracture line, lateral coical thickening, and medial spiking.
DEXA scan
X-ray
Serum vitamin D levels
Serum alkaline phosphate levels