Clinical and economic burden of fractures in patients with renal osteodystrophy

UNLABELLED: Renal osteodystrophy is a key cause of fractures in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). AIMS: This article reviews the clinical and economic burden of fractures and explores the types of studies that need to be conducted in order to fully understand the impact of fractures in renal osteodystrophy. We also discuss the role that active vitamin D compounds and calcimimetics play in treating secondary hyperparathyroidism. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Medline was searched for relevant articles on renal osteodystrophy and fractures. RESULTS: CKD-related fractures are the source of significant morbidity and costs. Extensive osteoporosis research has been utilized to guide fracture prevention and improve disease management, but further costs and outcomes analyses are needed for renal osteodystrophy. Recent research regarding newer, present-day treatment paradigms has suggested that distinct cost savings and improved patient outcomes are possible. CONCLUSIONS: In order to realize such economic and human benefits, the medical community must first have sufficient pathologic, pharmacoeconomic and epidemiologic data to properly understand, manage and prevent renal osteodystrophy and fractures.