basic science
Bone Biology and Metabolism
intermediate
6 min
28 marks
6 questions
Clinical Scenario
A 72-year-old female presents with a distal radius fracture after a fall from standing height. She has a history of previous vertebral compression fracture and takes no medications for bone health. Her DXA scan shows T-score of -3.2 at lumbar spine and -2.8 at femoral neck. She asks about treatment to prevent future fractures.
Laboratory results and DXA report are provided.
Laboratory results and DXA report are provided.
Clinical image for Bone Biology and Metabolism
Source: AI-Generated Educational Illustration: Bone Remodeling Cycle and RANKL/OPG Pathway ā¢ OrthoVellum Educational Use
Questions
Question 1 (4 marks)
Describe the cellular components of bone and their functions. What is the RANK/RANKL/OPG system?
Question 2 (5 marks)
Explain the bone remodeling cycle. What factors regulate bone turnover?
Question 3 (6 marks)
Define osteoporosis. How is it diagnosed and classified? What are the risk factors?
Question 4 (5 marks)
What are the pharmacological treatment options for osteoporosis? Compare their mechanisms and evidence.
Question 5 (4 marks)
Describe the role of calcium, vitamin D, and parathyroid hormone in bone metabolism.
Question 6 (4 marks)
What are the implications for this patient? Outline your management plan.