HIGH PREVALENCE AND INDEPENDENT PREDICTORS OF OSTEOPOROSIS IN HOSPITALIZED PATIENTS WITH INTERSTITIAL LUNG DISEASES

Abstract

Background:

Interstitial lung diseases (ILDs) are a heterogeneous group of chronic pulmonary disorders characterized by varying degrees of inflammation and fibrosis. Patients with ILDs are frequently exposed to multiple risk factors that adversely affect bone health.

Objective:

To identify the prevalence of osteoporosis in hospitalized patients with ILDs as well as to determine the demographic, clinical, biochemical, and predictors of the disease related to low bone mineral density.

Methodology:

The study was a cross-sectional descriptive study, which was completed in a 6-month period in the Department of Pulmonology in a tertiary care hospital. A total of 20-75 years adult inpatients with a confirmed ILD were enrolled using consecutive sampling. The mineral density of bone was measured by using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry of lumbar spine, neck of the femur, and total hip and categorized as per the world health organization criteria. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was employed in identifying independent predictors of osteoporosis and p <0.05 was regarded as statistically significance.

Results:

The average age was 60.2 ± 10.8 years and 60% of the respondents were males and 40% females. Osteopenia was found in 27% of patients and osteoporosis in 55%. Deficiency in vitamin D was found in 68% and 74% had a history of taking systemic corticosteroids. Independent predictors of osteoporosis were age ≥60 years, use of corticosteroids, vitamin D deficiency, and severe ILD.

Conclusion:

Osteoporosis is highly prevalent among hospitalized ILD patients. Incorporating routine bone health assessment into ILD management may reduce fracture risk and improve clinical outcomes.