Osteoporotic fractures in older women.

A case review of postmenopausal osteoporosis is presented in the context of recent literature in the field. Given the case patient's high risk for future fracture, a thorough workup and pharmacologic intervention are reasonable. Etiology of the patient's disease is explored, particularly vitamin D insufficiency, low body weight, smoking history, celiac sprue, use of glucocorticoids, and estrogen status. Means of reducing fracture risk include lifestyle changes, calcium and vitamin D repletion, antiresorptive therapy, and patient education. Development of new therapies to further reduce fracture risk in such individuals, and efficient strategies to target interventions toward those at highest risk, are needed.