HORMONAL MECHANISMS IN THE PATHOGENESIS OF OSTEOPOROSIS

Abstract

Osteoporosis is a systemic skeletal disorder characterized by reduced bone mass, deterioration of bone microarchitecture, and an increased risk of fragility fractures. Bone remodeling is regulated by a complex interplay of endocrine factors, including sex hormones, parathyroid hormone, vitamin D, glucocorticoids, thyroid hormones, growth hormone, insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1), and calcitonin. Hormonal imbalances significantly contribute to the development of osteoporosis, particularly during ageing. Estrogen deficiency in postmenopausal women and declining testosterone and IGF-1 levels in older men are among the major factors associated with accelerated bone loss. This review summarizes the principal hormonal mechanisms involved in osteoporosis pathogenesis and discusses their relevance for the prevention, diagnosis, and management of the disease.