Osteoporotic fractures at presentation of Cushing's disease: two case reports and a literature review

Joint Bone Spine. 2000;67(4):341-5.

Abstract

Osteoporosis is a common complication of Cushing's disease/syndrome. Fractures can be the presenting manifestation. We report two cases and review 28 others from the literature. Clinical, laboratory, and absorptiometry data are reviewed; the vertebrae and ribs were the most common fracture sites, and osteoporosis reversal after treatment varied with age, gender, and symptom duration. The pathophysiology, which remains controversial, is discussed. A search for Cushing's disease/syndrome should be part of the routine evaluation of osteoporosis in children and adults, particularly men.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Absorptiometry, Photon
  • Adult
  • Alendronate / therapeutic use
  • Bone and Bones / diagnostic imaging
  • Bone and Bones / pathology
  • Cushing Syndrome / complications*
  • Cushing Syndrome / diagnostic imaging
  • Cushing Syndrome / pathology
  • Fractures, Spontaneous / diagnostic imaging
  • Fractures, Spontaneous / etiology*
  • Fractures, Spontaneous / pathology
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Osteoporosis / diagnostic imaging
  • Osteoporosis / drug therapy
  • Osteoporosis / etiology*
  • Osteoporosis / pathology
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Alendronate