Bone mineral density evaluated by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry after one-year treatment with calcitriol started in the predialysis phase of chronic renal failure.

Thirteen patients in the predialysis phase of chronic renal failure (CRF) were treated with calcitriol (0.25 micrograms/day) and 12 with placebo. After 1 year of study, an increase in bone mineral density in the calcitriol group measured by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry was seen for the femoral neck and lumbar spine when compared to the placebo group (p < 0.001 and p < 0.01, respectively). We conclude that a steady low dose of calcitriol started in the predialysis phase of CRF is beneficial to the patients with CRF. This may be partly due to suppression of secondary hyperparathyroidism.