Clinical frontiers of metabolic bone disorders: a comprehensive review

Abstract

Metabolic bone disease (MBD)encompasses various conditions that adversely impact bone health, such as osteoporosis, primary hyperparathyroidism, osteomalacia, and fluorosis disease. Effectively managing these disorders requires early detection and a focus on maintaining healthy nutritional habits. Dietary adjustments serve as a cornerstone, but supplementation of essential minerals like calcium, phosphate, and vitamin D is often necessary to support bone reabsorption and regeneration, and reduce fracture risk. Despite the effectiveness of these measures in many cases, hereditary bone diseases pose distinctive challenges due to genetic factors. Emerging technologies that provide higher-resolution insights into bone architecture and quality are now complementing traditional diagnostic tools like dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA). Moreover, the therapeutic landscape has transformed with the introduction of newer agents that not only halt bone loss but also stimulate bone formation. These agents promise better outcomes with reduced side effects, catering to a wider patient population. However, the management of MBDs remains multifaceted, necessitating individualized approaches based on the patient’s clinical profile. As the global prevalence of MBDs, especially osteoporosis, continues to soar, it becomes imperative for clinicians to stay abreast with the evolving paradigms. This review serves as a bridge between historical knowledge and recent discoveries, offering a holistic perspective on the challenges and opportunities in the domain of MBDs.