Case report of bisphosphonate-associated atypical scapular fracture and brief literature review.

Abstract

Sir, Osteoporosis results in millions of fractures.[1] It is common among postmenopausal women, and the disease process is characterized by increased bone turnover, progressive loss of bone mass, microarchitectural deterioration, and increased fracture risk. Bisphosphonates, which are antiresorptive drugs, are the most commonly used pharmacologic treatments for postmenopausal osteoporosis. Alendronate, a potent bisphosphonate, decreases bone turnover, increases bone mineral density, and decreases vertebral, nonspine, and hip fracture risk in women with osteoporosis.[2] Atypical stress fractures also known as insufficiency fractures of the proximal femoral shaft have been reported as a side effect in patients taking a long‐term bisphosphonate. We report a case of bisphosphonate‐associated atypical fracture of nonweight bearing bone scapula in a female patient.