RESUMO
To evaluate bone turnover in postmenopausal osteoporosis and its relation to female sex hormone estradiol, using biochemical markers of both bone formation and resorption. Thirty females suffering from postmenopausal osteoporosis were studied compared to ten apparently healthy females. Estimation of biochemical markers of bone formation including procollagen type 1 carboxy- terminal propeptide [PICP], osteocalcin and alkaline phosphatase was performed. Hydroxyproline was estimated in the urine as a marker of bone resorption. Also, serum estradiol values were assessed. Our results revealed an increase in the values of biochemical markers of bone formation PICP and osteocalcin, but no change in alkaline phosphatase was detected. Also, there was an increase in the biochemical marker of bone resorption, hydroxyproline. There were decreased estradiol values in our patients that were correlated with the biochemical markers of bone turnover. Regular estimation of biochemical markers of bone turnover may be valuable in early diagnosis, prevention and treatment of postmenopausal osteoporosis. Estradiol strongly affects bone turnover in postmenopausal osteoporosis that reflected on the values of biochemical markers of bone turnover