Comparative evaluation of local and international reference databases for forearm densitometry: different impacts on diagnostic decisions.

Reference databases play a key role in the management of osteoporosis. The aim of this preliminary study was to compare the diagnostic consequences of using either an international or a local reference database in peripheral densitometry. For this purpose, standard curves for bone mineral density (measured by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry at the distal and proximal forearm) were generated for healthy Hungarian men and women.

Uncommon type of placentation after previous cesarean deliveries.

Background: A rare type of placentation leading to cesarean delivery and hysterectomy is described.

Case: A young multigravida in the 26th week of gestation was referred to our department with a history of vaginal bleeding and suspected placenta previa. Three previous children were delivered by elective cesarean.

Bone mineral density in patients with endogenous subclinical hyperthyroidism: is this thyroid status a risk factor for osteoporosis?

Objective: The aim of the present study was to elucidate whether endogenous subclinical hyperthyroidism due to a solitary autonomously functioning thyroid nodule affects bone metabolism and is a risk factor for osteoporosis.

Design: In a cross-sectional study measurements of bone mineral density were performed in premenopausal and post-menopausal women. Patients were categorized into non-toxic nodular goitre (n = 32), subclinical hyperthyroid (n = 37) and toxic solitary autonomous thyroid nodule (n = 22) subgroups and the results were compared with those of sex and age-matched control reference population (n = 68).

[Mean value of bone mineral content in Hungary measured by dual-photon absorptiometry].

Bone mineral content and density of the lumbar spine and femoral neck was measured by dual energy X-ray absorptiometry in normal volunteers (89 women, 77 men) in different age groups. Peak values in both sexes occurred in the 3rd decade and are about 25% higher in men than those in women. In women the bone loss begins around 40 years at lumbar spine and also at the femoral neck.