[Secondary osteoporosis. Glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis: Threshold of bone mineral density for vertebral fracture].

The use of systemic corticosteroids is one of independent risk factors with bone mineral density (BMD) for fractures. The prior and current exposure to corticosteroids confers an increased risk of fracture that is of substantial importance beyond that explained by the decrease of BMD. Cut-off value of lumbar BMD for vertebral fractures was 80% of young adult mean in Japanese patients. For management of glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis, we have to concern about all risk factors of fracture including BMD and use the evidence-based guideline.