Biochemical markers of bone turnover. A look at laboratory tests that reflect bone status.

Chemicals in serum and urine can serve as markers for monitoring bone loss, bone reformation, and the effectiveness of therapy in patients with osteoporosis. Although not yet well recognized or readily available, tests for these markers may prove preferable to densitometry in some settings or for some patients. In the future, biochemical markers may provide important information on fracture risks as well.