Türk Osteoporoz Dergisi (Jun 2007)
The Relationship Between Health Related Quality of Life and Vertebral Fracture in Postmenopausal Osteoporosis - Original Investigation
Abstract
Aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between vertebral fracture and quality of life in postmenopausal osteoporotic patients. Osteoporosis is a disease characterized by low bone mass and structural detoriation of bone tissue, leading to bone fragility and increased susceptibility to fractures. Fracture formation is the most important complication of osteoporosis. Vertebral fractures cause back pain, sleep disorders, depression, and incapacity in daily activities and all these entities decrease quality of life. Patients and Methods: Thirty five female patients with postmenopausal osteoporosis were enrolled in this study. Bilaterally dorsal and lumbar spine radiographs were used to investigate the existence of vertebral compression fracture. Anterior, middle and posterior heights of vertebral bodies (T4-L5 ) have measured on lateral spine radiographs and the number of vertebrae with fracture were determined. Bone mineral density were measured by using Dual Energy X Ray Absorbtiometry (DXA) at the lumbar spine (L1-4) and proximal femur. Quality of life was assessed by using Quality of Life Questionnaire of the European Foundation For Osteoporosis (QUALEFFO). Results: The mean number of vertebral fractures was 2.14±2.17. There was a correlation between fractures and quality of life pain, physical function, general health assesment, mental function scores and the total score. No significant correlation was found for social function scores. Moreover a positive relation was detected between number of vertebral fractures and age. When bone mineral density values and quality of life scores of the groups were compared, the group having vertebral fractures had lower density and poorer quality of life scores but no statistically significant difference was detected. Conclusion: Osteoporotic vertebral fractures affect quality of life negatively. We suggest that during the treatment and follow up of patients with osteoporosis, quality of life scales should be included in the evaluation. (From the World of Osteoporosis 2007;13:23-7)
