Relationship of bone density with serum parathyroid hormone in hemodialysis patients; a single center study

Introduction: The existence of a relationship between the level of serum parathyroid hormone (PTH) and bone density can be a warning sign in hemodialysis patients.Objectives: In the studies conducted so far, the relationship between these two factors has not been specifically investigated. Hence, this study was aimed to exclusively evaluate the levels of serum PTH hormone and bone density.Patients and Methods: In this cross sectional study, 85 eligible chronic hemodialysis patients aged over 18 years old, who had underwent hemodialysis a minimum of two times a week for at least six months were enrolled in the study. Serum intact PTH, 25 OH-vitamin D3, CBC-calcium, phosphorus, alkaline phosphatase, albumin, and VBG were measured. Additionally, lumbar radiographic profile and densitometry tests were conducted for patients.Results: The mean age of patients was 52.9 years (20 to 86 years old). Of them, 43 patients were male (50.6%). There was a significant correlation between age and the decrease in bone density (p =0.004). There was a significant relationship between different groups of bone density and serum vitamin D3 level (P < 0.05). Based on the results of Z standard, a significant difference between the mean levels of intact PTH in different groups of bone density was seen (p = 0.037).Conclusion: The prevalence of osteopenia and osteoporosis in hemodialysis patients is high. In addition, the decrease in bone density is associated with high levels of parathyroid hormone. While, this association is mainly associated with Z score, it is necessary to investigate the secondary causes of this condition.