Osteoporosis Profile-I

Osteoporosis test measures certain parameters in blood and urine that may aid the diagnosis of osteoporosis. The common symptoms are frequent non-specific backache, brittle bones leading to frequent falls and fractures, loss of height over time, bending of the spine (kyphosis). Osteoporosis test may also be recommended in certain individuals with risk factors for developing osteoporosis. These include:

• Post menopausal and early menopausal women
• Long term corticosteroid usage leading to reduced bone density over time.
• Positive family history.
• Hormonal disorders of the thyroid or parathyroid glands. 

Osteoporosis test measures the levels of calcium, phosphorus and alkaline phosphatase in blood serum.

The Osteoporosis Profile-I measures the levels of markers that are important for bone health. The test typically includes measurements of calcium, phosphorus, and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) in blood serum. By measuring these markers, the Osteoporosis Profile-I test can provide important information about a person's bone health and the risk of developing osteoporosis.

During osteoporosis test blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm, using a small needle. After the needle is inserted, a small amount of blood will be collected into a test tube or vial. You may feel a  little sting when the needle goes in or out. This usually takes less than five minutes.

During an Osteoporosis Profile-I test, a healthcare professional will collect a blood and urine sample to assess bone health and diagnose osteoporosis. No special preparation is usually required, and the test is not generally painful. The procedure takes a few minutes, and the results are typically available in a few days.

Low calcium levels may lead to dry skin, coarse hair, brittle nails, muscle cramps, tingling, and cardiac irregularities. Low calcium levels (hypocalcemia) may occur due to hypoparathyroidism, kidney conditions, malnutrition. pancreatitis, low calcium diet and vitamin D deficiency.
High calcium levels may lead to constipation, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and mental confusion. High calcium levels (hypercalcemia) may indicate hyperparathyroidism (overactive parathyroid gland), certain cancers, bone disorders like Paget's disease or high vitamin D levels. 
High phosphorus levels maybe due to kidney disorders, diabetic ketoacidosis, liver diseases, hypoparathyroidism, hypocalcemia, excess phosphorus in the diet and even due to certain medications. 
Low phosphorus levels may occur due to hyperparathyroidism, hypercalcemia, lack of phosphorus in the diet, alcoholism and malnutrition.
High levels of ALP are seen in:
Children during active bone formation, pregnant women, those with hepatobiliary disease like bile duct obstruction, hyperparathyroidism,  chronic kidney disease, vitamin D deficiency, rickets, osteomalacia, bacterial infection and malignant tumour. 

If the results are abnormal, it may indicate that there is an issue with bone health or an increased risk for osteoporosis.

• • Abnormal calcium levels:

Low calcium levels may indicate issues with calcium metabolism or absorption and may also occur due to hypoparathyroidism, kidney conditions, pancreatitis, and vitamin D deficiency.

High calcium levels may indicate hyperparathyroidism, certain cancers, and bone disorders like Paget's disease

• • Abnormal phosphorus levels:

High phosphorus levels can be a sign of kidney disease, diabetic ketoacidosis, liver diseases, and hypoparathyroidism.

Low phosphorus levels may occur due to hyperparathyroidism, hypercalcemia, and lack of phosphorus in the diet.

• • Abnormal alkaline phosphatase levels:

It can indicate increased bone turnover, which can be a sign of osteoporosis or other bone disorders.

Individuals suffering from hyperparathyroidism, chronic kidney disease, vitamin D deficiency, rickets, osteomalacia, bacterial infection and malignant tumours can have high ALP levels.

The Osteoporosis Profile-I is a blood and urine test that includes several biomarkers to assess bone health and diagnose osteoporosis. The test typically measures levels of calcium, phosphorus, and alkaline phosphatase in the blood.

Typically, no special preparations are required for an Osteoporosis Profile-I test. It is also good to keep in mind that for accurate results, you should avoid taking any medications that affect bone metabolism, such as bisphosphonates, calcitonin, or vitamin D supplements, for at least 48 hours before the test. Talk to your doctor for more guidance.

Here are the normal levels for the components of this profile:

• • Calcium: The normal range for calcium in blood serum is 8.5 to 10.2 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL).
  • Phosphorus: The normal range for phosphorus in blood serum is 2.5 to 4.5 mg/dL.
  • Alkaline phosphatase (ALP): The normal range for ALP in blood serum is 44 to 147 international units per liter (IU/L).

Osteoporosis is a condition that typically develops over time and often has no symptoms in its early stages. People with the following symptoms should do the Osteoporosis Profile-I test:

1. Postmenopausal women and older adults, as they are at a higher risk of developing osteoporosis
2. People with certain medical conditions that affect bone health, such as rheumatoid arthritis.
3. People who have experienced a fracture as an adult.
4. People who have lost height over time
5. People with a stooped posture
6. People who have chronic back pain caused by a collapsed vertebra
7. People who have had a DEXA scan that shows low bone density

• • Bone mineral density (BMD) test: This test uses x-ray or ultrasound technology to measure the density of bones in the spine, hip, and sometimes the wrist. Low BMD is a sign of osteoporosis.
  • Vitamin D: This test measures the level of vitamin D in the blood.
  • Parathyroid hormone (PTH): This test measures the level of PTH in the blood. PTH is a hormone that regulates the balance of calcium and phosphate in the body, which is important for bone health.
  • Urine N-telopeptide (NTx) test: This test measures the levels of a marker of bone resorption in the urine, which can be elevated in conditions that cause bone loss.

Osteoporosis Markers Panel

Bone Metabolism Markers

Bone Resorption Markers Panel

Calcium (Ca)

Phosphorus (P)

Alkaline Phosphatase-Total (ALP-Total)

Beta 2 Crosslaps (CTX-1)

Yes, home sample collection is available for the Osteoporosis Profile I test. A trained phlebotomist can come to your home to collect blood and urine samples, ensuring comfort, safety, and accurate results. This service is ideal for those with mobility issues or who find it difficult to visit a diagnostic centre.

The Osteoporosis Profile I test is used to evaluate bone health, diagnose osteoporosis, detect early signs of bone loss, and assess the risk of bone fractures. It helps healthcare providers make informed decisions about preventive measures and treatment options.

The benefits of the Osteoporosis Profile I test include early detection of bone health issues, assessment of fracture risk, and guidance for preventive and treatment measures to manage osteoporosis effectively. It helps in maintaining optimal bone health and preventing complications.

The frequency of Osteoporosis Profile-I testing depends on individual risk factors and medical history. It is generally recommended for postmenopausal women, older adults, and those with risk factors for osteoporosis. Consult your healthcare provider to determine the appropriate testing frequency for you.

You can get the Osteoporosis Profile I test done at any time. However, it is advisable to avoid taking medications that affect bone metabolism, such as bisphosphonates, calcitonin, or vitamin D supplements, for at least 48 hours before the test. Consult your doctor for specific guidance.

No, fasting is not generally required for the Osteoporosis Profile I test. You can undergo the test without any specific dietary restrictions.

Yes, it is important to avoid taking medications that affect bone metabolism, such as bisphosphonates, calcitonin, or vitamin D supplements, for at least 48 hours before the Osteoporosis Profile I test. Consult your doctor for specific guidance regarding any medications you are taking.

The Osteoporosis Profile-I test includes the measurement of calcium, phosphorus, and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) levels in the blood serum. These parameters help assess bone health and identify any imbalances or abnormalities.

The Osteoporosis Profile-I test involves collecting a blood sample from a vein in your arm and a urine sample. The procedure is quick and generally not painful, taking less than five minutes.

The Osteoporosis Profile I test should be done based on individual risk factors, such as postmenopausal status, age, family history, and the presence of certain medical conditions. In India, screening for osteoporosis should begin at an earlier age due to the higher incidence of osteoporotic fractures at younger ages.

The Osteoporosis Profile-I test becomes "positive" or indicative of osteoporosis when the measured parameters (calcium, phosphorus, and ALP) are outside the normal ranges, suggesting bone health issues or an increased risk of osteoporosis.

The procedure of collecting blood and urine samples for the Osteoporosis Profile-I test takes only a few minutes, usually less than five minutes.

The results of the Osteoporosis Profile I test are typically available within 24 hours afthe test. The exact turnaround time may vary depending on the diagnostic centre or healthcare provider.