bone biopsy for the diagnosis of osteoporosis

Last reviewed 01/2018

A transiliac biopsy may be used if the diagnosis of osteoporosis is in doubt, to exclude other bone disease and confirm the presence of osteoporosis. The usual findings are:

    • reduced trabecular bone volume, often with low or normal bone turnover
    • a few sites of active bone resorption or formation
    • no osteoid accumulation
    • no marrow fibrosis or plasma cell nests