Measurement of bone density in the pediatric population.

Overview

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: The purpose of this review is to provide a comprehensive synopsis of pediatric bone density. Osteoporosis of the adult is a well established clinical problem, and algorithms to diagnose and treat this disease are recognized throughout the medical community. Osteoporosis or 'low bone mass' in pediatrics, on the other hand, is a rather new and evolving area, with certain unique diagnostic and clinical challenges. RECENT FINDINGS: Recent findings in the literature include benefits and limitations of pediatric bone densitometry techniques, proper interpretation of the results of these various techniques, efforts to establish standards and guidelines for diagnosing low bone mass in children and adolescents, optimization of bone growth and mineral accrual for life, pediatric bone mineral density and fracture risk prediction, as well as a clearer awareness of bone fragility in children. SUMMARY: Throughout the last decade, great strides have been made in our understanding of pediatric metabolic bone disease. These will be the focus of this review.