Osteoporosis Screening - basic

Basic osteoporosis screening is a laboratory test panel used to assess bone metabolism and to detect early disturbances that may lead to reduced bone density. It evaluates calcium and phosphorus metabolism, parathyroid function, kidney function, and hormonal factors involved in bone remodeling.

Panel composition and test significance

• TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone) — assesses thyroid function, which influences bone metabolism
• Serum creatinine — reflects kidney function and its role in vitamin D and mineral metabolism
• Total serum calcium — essential mineral for bone structure and strength
• Albumin — plasma protein affecting circulating calcium levels and nutritional status
• Intact parathyroid hormone (PTH) — key regulator of calcium, phosphorus, and bone remodeling
• Serum phosphorus — involved in bone mineralization and mineral balance

Indications

• suspected osteoporosis or osteopenia
• fractures after minor trauma
• diffuse bone or joint pain
• menopause or andropause
• advanced age (preventive screening)
• vitamin D deficiency or mineral metabolism disorders
• chronic endocrine or kidney diseases
• long-term corticosteroid therapy

Procedure

The tests are performed on a venous blood sample collected under standard laboratory conditions. After collection, the sample is processed for biochemical and hormonal analysis included in the panel. The procedure is simple and does not require any additional intervention.

Sources:

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5335887/
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0022316622017473
https://cemf.md/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/15573-PCN-8520Osteoporoza20la20adult.pdf
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5754375/
https://academic.oup.com/edrv/article/46/4/576/8104766
https://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2022/0300/p289.html