Site-specific alterations of bone matrix mineralization, micro-hardness, and density of mineralized osteocyte lacunae in men with alcohol-associated liver disease: implications for vertebral fracture predilection
Authors' conclusion
Our findings revealed a site-specific reduction in trabecular bone mineralization and an increased proportion of mineralized osteocyte lacunae in male individuals with AALD, which may contribute to increased vertebral predilection in these individuals.
Study context
- Population
- Adult male donors; first lumbar vertebra and superolateral femoral neck bone harvested at autopsy
- Participants
- 24 male autopsy donors
- Exposure
- Alcohol-associated liver disease (AALD) vs age-matched controls
- AALDn = 12
- Controlsn = 12reference
- Outcome
- Site-specific BMD distribution, bone mechanical properties, osteocyte lacunar network and Haversian system characteristics (quantitative backscattered electron imaging, Vickers micro-indentation)
Methodological detailsautopsy specimens, age-matched controls
- Autopsy specimens
- Age-matched controls
Main finding
As reported in the abstract
Bone quality in lumbar vertebrae and superolateral femoral neck
- Significantly lower mean calcium content, reduced Vickers micro-hardness, higher micropetrosis density, thicker osteonal wall and higher percentage of osteon refilling in lumbar vertebrae and femoral neck with AALD
- AALD vs Controls: P < 0.05
Observational data: associations, not effects.
Further findings
| Outcome | P value |
|---|---|
| Site of most severe impairment | P < 0.05 |
- Site of most severe impairment: most severe impairment in trabecular compartment of lumbar vertebrae
Site of most severe impairment
- Bone quality alterations congruent at both sites; most severe AALD-induced impairment in trabecular compartment of lumbar vertebrae
Original publication
Site-specific alterations of bone matrix mineralization, micro-hardness, and density of mineralized osteocyte lacunae in men with alcohol-associated liver disease: implications for vertebral fracture predilection. J Bone Miner Res. Published 6 June 2025. doi:10.
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