Bone Mineral Density Evaluated by Dual-Energy X-Ray Absorptiometry after One-Year Treatment with Calcitriol Started in the Predialysis Phase of Chronic Renal Failure

Abstract

Thirteen patients in the predialysis phase of chronic renal failure (CRF) were treated with calcitriol (0.25 μg/day) and 12 with placebo. After 1 year of study, an increase in bone mineral density in the calcitriol group measured by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry was seen for the femoral neck and lumbar spine when compared to the placebo group (p < 0.001 and p < 0.01, respectively). We conclude that a steady low dose of calcitriol started in the predialysis phase of CRF is beneficial to the patients with CRF. This may be partly due to suppression of secondary hyperparathyroidism.