Supplements of calcium and vitamin D to improve bone mineral density of children with cerebral palsy: a quasi-experimental study

Abstract

Background Osteoporosis is a bone disease characterized by low bone mineral density and abnormal bone architecture, that leads to bone fragility and increased risk of fractures, even spontaneously or with low-energy trauma. It affects children as well as adults, and it can be either a primary problem or secondary to various diseases (such as cerebral palsy), lifestyle issues and medications.

Justification In this study we will focus on children with cerebral palsy that have a low bone mineral density, but do not meet osteoporosis criteria. Currently those children do not receive a treatment, and we think that they would beneficiate from supplements of calcium and vitamin D in order to prevent fractures, thus increasing their quality of life.

Main objective

The aim of this study is to evaluate the effect of supplements of calcium and vitamin D on densitometric results of children with cerebral palsy and low bone mineral density.

Design It is designed as a longitudinal, prospective, analytic, quasi- experimental study

Participants Children between the age of 4-14 that have cerebral palsy with low bone mineral density, objectified by a DXA and a blood test.

Variables Calcium and Vitamin D, DXA scan results (Z-score) Intervention and method

A densitometry and study of bone metabolism are performed. Then, supplements of calcium and vitamin D are given for one year, and after that the densitometry and the study of bone metabolism are repeated to compare the results. There will be a follow-up visit 6 months after the beginning of the treatment.

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