Osteopenia in Children

Osteopenia in children is a condition in which a child has low bone mineral density. Low bone density can be due to many different factors, but is cause for special concern in children. Osteopenia is considered a mid-way diagnoses between normal bone density and bone density low enough to be classified as osteoporosis. Osteopenia that occurs in individuals before age 30 indicates a higher risk for developing osteoporosis in later years. In some instances, individuals with osteopenia may simply have brittle or low density bones.

Causes

• WebMD states that there are several causes of osteopenia in younger individuals. These causes include having an eating disorder in which restricted consumption of food leads to lack of bone growth. Another cause for osteopenia is a history of chemotherapy. Medications, including steroids, used to treat asthma and other conditions can contribute to the development of osteopenia. Radiation treatments can also be a significant contributor to the osteopenia in children.

Risk Factors

• There are several risk factors for children who develop osteopenia. WebMD states that these include not only having a personal history of radiation or chemotherapy but also a family history of individuals who had osteopenia and osteoporosis. Other risk factors include being Caucasian or Asian descent, having a thin build and being treated with medications such as Neurontin, Tegretol (to prevent seizures or for pain), prednisone and other corticosteroids. Additionally, having a period in childhood where the child was bedridden for an unusually long period of time can be a risk factor.

Signs and Symptoms

• According to WebMD, there are generally no signs or symptoms of osteopenia in children until a bone breaks or factures. There is no pain or difficulty playing or engaging in normal children's activities for most children with the conditions. However, being in a risk group, such as having a history of chemotherapy, radiation or on high doses of steroids (prednisone, corticosteroids), may give rise to being concerned about having the condition.

Treatments

• The primary treatment for osteopenia is preventing it from progressing to a case of osteoporosis. WebMD states that most doctors will prescribe extra calcium supplements to encourage bone growth and improve bone density. Other activities that can be considered are engaging in weight-bearing activities, such as lifting small free weights. Vitamin D is also a supplement that can help with the development of bone density. Vitamin D is often added to milk and other dairy products, so it is easily accessible for most individuals.

Prognosis

• WebMD states that although children with osteopenia may be prone to osteoporosis, it does not mean that they will automatically progress to that ailment. Instead, diligent pursuit of physical activities that promote bone growth and consumption of calcium and Vitamin D will help tremendously in avoiding worsening of bone density. Children who have had medical treatments for illnesses such as Crohn's disease or asthma with prednisone or other corticosteroids should be completely healthy if they engage in proper exercise and regular activities.