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.
Settings Hospital Universitari Dr. Josep Trueta de Girona
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