Cytokines in osteoporosis and steroid induced osteoporosis

WHO (1993) has defined osteoporosis “disease characterized by low bone mass and microarchitectural deterioration of bone tissue, leading to enhanced bone fragility and a consequent increase in fracture risk”. (1) Osteoporosis is a serious public health problem second to cardiovascular diseases in global health care scenario. 1 in 3 women and 1 in 5 men over the age 50 experience osteoporotic fracture worldwide. Patients usually suffer from pain, limited range of motion, disability and deformity but osteoporosis becomes clinically apparent only after the fracture occurs. Psychosocial symptoms and loss of self-esteem are also associated.