The Relationship between Homocysteine and Fragility Fractures - A Systematic Review
Alexandru Filip
Department of Orthopedics and Traumatology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Grigore T. Popa”, Iasi, Romania.
Nina Filip *
Department of Biochemistry, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Grigore T. Popa”, Iasi, Romania.
Bogdan Veliceasa
Department of Orthopedics and Traumatology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Grigore T. Popa”, Iasi, Romania.
Cristiana Filip
Department of Biochemistry, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Grigore T. Popa”, Iasi, Romania.
Ovidiu Alexa
Department of Orthopedics and Traumatology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Grigore T. Popa”, Iasi, Romania.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
It is known that increased levels of homocysteine in plasma have been associated with various diseases. Current studies show that homocysteine is a new risk factor for the development of osteoporosis. Fragility fractures are associated with increased morbidity, mortality and cause substantial financial loss to the patients and their families.
This mini-review provides a critical overview of currently available studies, examining the relationship between plasma homocysteine levels and fragility fractures. In conclusion more studies are needed to establish a clear relationship between homocysteine and fractures in elderly patients.
Keywords: Hyperhomocysteine, osteoporosis, fracture, methionine, bone fragility.