Many inflammatory rheumatic diseases are associated with an increased fracture
risk. Causes include the pro-inflammatory cytokines which are elevated in these
diseases, reduced mobility and physical activity often caused by joint pain, and
medications that negatively affect bone quality. Osteoporosis, the loss of bone
mass and structure is the result. This review article summarizes the current
diagnostic and therapeutic osteoporosis recommendations for patients with
rheumatoid arthritis. It should be emphasized that early measures for the
detection and treatment of osteoporosis are particularly important, since the
risk factor constellation often present in this patient population leads to a
relatively high imminent fracture risk at the beginning of the disease and the
start of glucocorticoid therapy. Treatment initiations as early as possible with
effective control of inflammatory activity is therefore essential to reduce the
risk of osteoporosis. The administration of glucocorticoids should be reduced as
far as the clinical context allows. Fracture risk should be assessed when the RA
diagnosis is made and in regular intervals thereafter. Osteoporosis medication
should be initiated based on the overall fracture risk. The choice of medication
is based on the particular risk and indication. The basis of therapy is an
adequate intake of vitamin D and calcium and adapted physical activity