Affiliation:
1. Sheffield Children's Hospital Sheffield Yorkshire
Abstract
SUMMARYA current working definition of osteoporosis in children is ‘fragility fractures in association with low bone mass’. This review illustrates the determinants of bone mass and fracture risk. We elucidate the pathophysiology and causes of osteoporosis in various childhood disorders, with a particular focus on the commonest iatrogenic problem, glucocorticoid‐induced osteoporosis. We discuss clinical evaluation, investigation and multidisciplinary management including lifestyle advice, diet, physiotherapy and occupational therapy, drug treatments and monitoring for children with osteoporosis. We also emphasise the important concepts of bone mass assessment and interpretation in children.