OSTEOPENIA AS A RISK FACTOR OF DEVELOPMENT AND PROGRESSION OF SCOLIOSIS IN CHILDREN

Background. Bone mineral density is a new predictor of the curve progression in adolescents with scoliosis and may influence the outcomes of brace treatment. The aim of the study was to determine bone mineral density in children with scoliosis in order to reveal osteopenia. Material and methods. We observed and interviewed 40 patients with scoliosis. Spine X-rays in 2 projections, computed tomography (densitometry), biochemical blood analysis (alkaline phosphatase, calcium, phosphorus, potassium, sodium, magnesium, chlorine) were performed; calcium excretion in the morning urine was assessed. Results. We revealed possible causes of development (low physical activity, short outdoor staying, wrong nutritional behavior, chronic diseases, allergy, delayed menarche in girls), clinical manifestations (spasm of certain muscle groups, fractures), instrumental (densitometry) and laboratory parameters (increased alkaline phosphatase in the blood, calcium excretion in urine) of osteopenia. Conclusions. It is necessary to determine bone mineral density in children with scoliosis in order to correct osteopenia before brace treatment.