Effect of Long-Term Use of Bisphosphonates on Forearm Bone: Atypical Ulna Fractures in Elderly Woman with Osteoporosis

Abstract EN

Osteoporosis is a common musculoskeletal disease of the elderly population characterized by decreased bone mineral density and subsequent fractures.

Bisphosphonates are a widely accepted drug therapy which act through inhibition of bone resorption and prevent fractures.

However, in long-term use, atypical bisphosphonate induced fractures may occur, particularly involving the lower weight bearing extremity.

Atypical ulna fracture associated with long-term bisphosphonate use is rarely reported in current literature.

We present a 62-year-old woman with atypical ulna due to long-term alendronate therapy without a history of trauma or fall.

Clinicians should be aware of stress fracture in a patient who has complaints of upper extremity pain and history of long-term bisphosphonate therapy.