Radiological manifestations of aluminum toxicity in chronic hemodialysis patients

ABSTRACT

The methods of determination of Al-related bone disorders including biopsy are painful techniques and unacceptable by most patients. This study aimed at defining a noninvasive procedure for determination of Al-related osteodystrophy by combining the radiologic findings, clinical data and biochemical results We found that the criteria which have been found useful for the noninvasive diagnosis of Al-toxicity are 1. Three or more rib fractures. 2. Upper rib fracture including 2[nd], 3[rd] or 4[th] rib. 3. Serum Al level of 30 microg% or more. 4. Low level of serum PTH. 5. Microcytic anaemia. 6. Generalized musculoskeletal disability, personality changes and limited physical activity