Abstract
Microdensitometric analysis of radiograms of the second metacarpal bone and related biochemical parameters were investigated in one hundred and four severely handicapped children and adults. These patients were classified according to the degree of limited mobility (group 1, bedridden; group 2, capable of rolling; group 3, capable of crawling; group 4, capable of walking). The metacarpal index (MCI), the cortical bone density (ΔGSmax), the medullary bone density (ΔGSmin) and the bone density per unit length (ΣGS/D) were decreased, especially in group 1.
Serum 25-hydroxy vitamin D3 and 1α, 25-dihydroxy vitamin D3 were the lower levels of normal range in these patients. Serum calcium, inorganic phosphorus, alkaline phosphatase and parathyroid hormone were normal.
The admistration of 1α-hydroxy vitamin D3 improved the bone density, but MCI was not significantly increased. Exercise may be necessary to increase the width of cortical bone.
It is concluded that limited physiological activity results in bone fragility and the prevention of deterioration of mobility may be important in these handicapped patients.
