Osteoporosis is the deterioration of bone mass and the overall architecture of the bone. Aging accelerates the bone mass decline and can lead to bone fractures. However, we can build back bone at any age through a process called remodeling. This process can leave markers in our blood that can be found and used for health information. During the process of remodeling, osteoblast activity produces a residue which is in the blood as a protein derivative. During the process of removing dead bone, another derivative of protein is accumulated in the blood. Ideally there should be evidence that there is more bone building residue.
The first bone marker test would act as a baseline, then 3 to 4 months later a follow up test would be performed. This provides the patient with information as to how their intervention (medicine & exercise) is working much faster than waiting for the results of a DEXA scan, which is only recommended everyone or two years.
Be your own advocate for bone turnover markers or assays! They can provide you with an up-to-date status as to the efficacy of the intervention for treatment of your osteoporosis, whether it is medication and/or strengthening and nutrition. Typically, the patient should ask for the bone marker test. This test is not expensive, but I have heard that it is covered by insurance.
Some facts:
- An endocrinologist or rheumatologist would best be familiar with this blood test
- Osteoclasts remove dead bone cells and leave “droppings” in the blood (CTx)
- Osteoblasts build new bone cells and leave “droppings” (PN1P)
- It takes about 3 to 4 months to see a significant change in serum levels
- The results indicate the amount of bone loss/growth
PREP FOR SCHEDULING AN ASSAY
Fast for 8- 10 hours before
Refrain from taking supplements prior to test
Schedule first thing in the morning
Ask the doctor to explain results
If a client brings me a hardcopy of their test results, I would be willing to sit with them and go over them as best I could!