Background
Osteoporosis is a complication of multiple sclerosis (MS), especially if corticosteroid therapy is given. Little is known about the effect on bone of immunomodulatory therapy (IMT) for MS.
Aim
We sought to evaluate bone mass in patients with MS on IMT.
Methods
We measured bone mineral density (BMD) by dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) in 37 patients with MS who received IMT. Different IMTs were administered: interferon beta-1a in 70%, interferon beta-1b in 27% and Glatiramer in 3%. High-dose pulse corticosteroid therapy (intravenous methylprednisolone 500 mg) was given to 81% ranging from 1 to 17 courses.
Results
Both mean BMD Z-score at spine of 0.53 (CI, 0.15–0.92; P = 0.0084) and mean BMD Z-score at femur of 0.72 (CI, 0.42–1.01; P < 0.0001) were significantly greater than zero.
Conclusions
IMT may have a favorable effect on bone in patients with MS even in the presence of pulse steroid therapy.