Changes in total body bone mineral content and regional bone mineral density in renal patients following renal transplantation.

We performed serial measurements of total body bone mineral content (BMC) and bone mineral density (BMD), and of regional BMD at the lumbar spine and femoral neck using dual energy X-ray absorptiometry. Twenty-six patients (15 females and 11 males) were studied at the time of transplantation, and 3 and 6 months post-transplant. At baseline, the total body BMC and regional BMD values of the patients did not differ significantly from age- and sex-matched controls. Total body BMC had fallen progressively at 3 months, followed by partial recovery at 6 months. Significant decreases of BMD were seen in the lumbar spine and femoral neck at 3 months with no evidence of recovery at 6 months. The changes in these indices correlated well with the duration of hospital stay in the first 3 post-transplant months. This preliminary study demonstrated rapid deterioration of skeletal integrity following renal transplantation and that this might be progressive. Preventative strategies to avoid this early bone loss may need to be investigated.