Serum N-terminal telopeptide of type I collagen as a biomarker for predicting bone density loss in patients with Crohn disease

Background The serum N-terminal telopeptide of type I collagen (NTx) is significantly higher in patients with Crohn disease (CD) than healthy individuals and ulcerative colitis. This study aimed to investigate whether an elevated NTx level a risk predictor osteoporosis CD. Methods Based on the femoral Z-score decreased over 2-year period, 41 CD were divided into ΔZ-score <0 group (Z-score decreased) ≥0 did not decrease). predictors decrease examined. Furthermore, we investigated correlations between (which represents change period) mean levels biomarkers, including Disease Activity Index (CDAI), albumin, C-reactive protein, bone metabolism markers (including NTx) measured initially (i.e., our previous study) 2 years later (present study). relationships anti-tumor necrosis factor α (anti-TNF-α) therapy also Results Although there was no correlation CDAI ΔZ-score, albumin correlated (P<0.01 P = 0.02, respectively). tended be lower anti-TNF-α administration non-administration group. Conclusions These observations indicated that could useful marker for predicting mineral density patients. Anti-TNF-α maintained level, suggesting treatment may help control increased resorption