Osteoporosis in Adult Survivors of Adolescent Cardiac Transplantation May Be Related to Hyperparathyroidism, Mild Renal Insufficiency, and Increased Bone Turnover

Adult survivors of adolescent cardiac transplantation have mild renal insufficiency, secondary hyperparathyroidism, and biochemical evidence of increased bone turnover. Osteoporosis is common in these patients, particularly at the one-third radius, a site sensitive to the catabolic effects of sustained excessive PTH secretion. We conclude that adult survivors of adolescent cardiac transplantation should be evaluated for hyperparathyroidism and osteoporosis.