Immunomodulators for multiple sclerosis may ameliorate spinal bone loss.

BACKGROUND

The effect of immunomodulator therapy (IMT) for multiple sclerosis (MS) on bone turnover is unknown.

AIM

The aim of this study was to assess bone turnover in MS patients on IMT.

METHODS

MS patients (n = 29) on maintenance IMT had repeat measurement of bone mineral density (BMD) after a 4.0 ± 0.4 years; bone turnover markers (BTM) were measured at the time of repeat BMD.

RESULTS

BMD was unchanged at the spine but declined at the hip. BTMs, both resorption and formation, were reduced compared to normative range that may indicate an anti-resorptive action of IMT. Significant negative correlations were noted between BTMs and changes in BMD at spine but not hip.

CONCLUSION

These observations suggest that IMT may have a beneficial effect on spinal bone by an antiresorptive action. A prospective study of the effect of IMT on BMD and bone turnover is warranted.