Renal osteodystrophy

Renal osteodystrophy is a bone disease that occurs when your kidneys fail to maintain the proper levels of calcium and phosphorus in your blood. It's a common problem in people with kidney disease and affects almost all patients at some stage of chronic kidney disease.

Causes

Renal osteodystrophy is caused by changes in the hormones that maintain calcium and phosphorus balance. The kidneys convert vitamin D from the skin and diet into an active form that helps the body absorb calcium from the intestines. In kidney disease, this conversion is reduced, leading to lower calcium levels. In response, the parathyroid glands produce more parathyroid hormone (PTH), which helps restore calcium levels by reabsorption from the bones. However, this can lead to bone disease.

Symptoms

Symptoms of renal osteodystrophy can vary. Some people have no symptoms, while others may experience bone pain, joint pain, fractures, and muscle weakness. In children, the disease can cause growth retardation and bone deformities.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of renal osteodystrophy involves blood tests to measure levels of calcium, phosphorus, PTH, and vitamin D. Bone biopsy may also be performed to assess the type and severity of the disease.

Treatment

Treatment aims to restore the balance of calcium, phosphorus, and PTH. This may involve dietary changes, medications to lower phosphorus levels, vitamin D supplements, and in some cases, surgery to remove the parathyroid glands.

See also

• Chronic kidney disease
• Bone disease
• Parathyroid hormone
• Vitamin D

References

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