diagnostic workup if osteoporotic fracture present

Last reviewed 01/2018

If there is a prevalent osteoporotic fracture a diagnostic work-up is recommended followed by osteoporosis treatment - Grade C.

The following diagnostic tests should be considered if they have not been done within the previous 6 months in order to exclude secondary causes of osteoporosis including myeloma, endocrinopathies, metabolic bone diseases and premature hypogonadism.

  • erythrocyte sedimentation rate
  • serum alkaline phosphatase
  • protein electrophoresis
  • total testosterone in men
  • oestradiol in amenorrheic premenopausal women
  • serum calcium
  • full blood count
  • thyroid function tests
  • serum prolactin where appropriate

Any abnormalities detected in the work-up should be treated as appropriate for the underlying condition.