Osteoporosis is defined as a disorder characterized by low bone mass, microarchitectural deterioration of bone tissue leading to enhanced bone fragility, and a consequent increase in fracture risk.
Fractures often occur after low-velocity trauma, particularly of the spine, hip, and distal radius.
The most serious manifestation of osteoporosis, and a complication of its low bone mass, is a hip fracture. While most vertebral crush fractures are painful and result in spinal deformity, hip fractures cause significant morbidity and mortality. For those who survive the acute event, nearly half have their life styles dramatically changed. Despite the many advances made in osteoporosis, its etiology remains uncertain. Monocyte production of IL-1 increases in the postmenopausal woman, and is blocked by estrogens.