Approach to the patient with pregnancy and lactation-associated osteoporosis

RATIONALE Pregnancy and lactation-associated osteoporosis (PLO) is very rare, but it can cause severe vertebral compression fractures with disabling back pain. Although it is a rare, PLO must be kept in mind in the differential diagnosis in patients presenting with low back pain during or after pregnancy. PATIENT CONCERNS A 23-year-old woman who suffered from lumbago and fractures in the vertebral column 1 month after delivery. DIAGNOSIS Pregnancy and lactation-associated osteoporosis. INTERVENTIONS Combination therapy of calcium and vitamin D were used for treatment, as well as regular follow-up. OUTCOMES The patient's back pain had decreased significantly, the bone metabolic index, bone mineral density (BMD) had improved and she did not experience any recurrence. LESSONS Early diagnosis and treatment of calcium and vitamin D, as well as the efficacy of PLO intervention monitoring and evaluation are critical for the success of treatment.