Biochemical markers of bone metabolism in mild ankylosing spondylitis and their relationship with bone mineral density and vertebral fractures.

Abstract

Bone turnover in patients with mild AS is characterized by low serum osteocalcin and ALP in the presence of normal calciotropic hormones. Biochemical markers of bone metabolism do not correlate with BMD or vertebral fractures. The disparity between osteocalcin and alkaline phosphatase in patients with AS needs further evaluation.