Clin Osteol 2020; 25(1): 28-34

Management of osteoporosis and calcium metabolism disorders during COVID-19 pandemicsGuidelines

Smaha Juraj; Kužma Martin; Jackuliak Peter; Killinger Zdenko; Payer Juraj

V. interná klinika LF UK a UNB, Nemocnica Ružinov, Bratislava

During the COVID-19 crisis it is very important for people with osteoporosis and calcium metabolism disorders to prevent fractures and to have guidance and support in managing their diseases. Osteologists have to make rapid changes to services in order to help prevent spread of the virus while maintaining best clinical practice possible. Non-urgent appointments should be postponed, remote consultations should be promoted and patients should be empowered to self-manage their conditions safely. Management of patients on specific parenteral antiporotic treatments could be problematic. IV bisphosphonates infusions can be delayed for at least 6-9 months during the pandemics. Patients on denosumab should continue planned therapy, if more than 7 months have passed after last deno­sumab administration alternative management with oral bisphosphonates should be followed quickly because of immediate increased risk of fracture. Vitamin D supplementation may probably protect patients from viral respiratory infections and alleviate the course of disease. Many diagnostic and therapeutic interventions of patients with hypo -⁠ or hyperparathyroidism should be postponed and most of the patients should be managed via remote consultations.

Keywords: hyperparathyroidism; denosumab; COVID-19; osteoporosis; pandemics; vitamin D; zoledronic acid

Published: June 11, 2020  Show citation