Normochromic normocytic anemia in a postmenopausal woman with severe osteoporosis treated with intermittent parathyroid hormone

J Bone Miner Metab. 2010;28(1):108-10. doi: 10.1007/s00774-009-0105-3. Epub 2009 Jul 4.

Abstract

Intermittent exogenous parathyroid hormone (PTH) is a potent osteoanabolic agent used for the treatment of severe osteoporosis. Two molecules of recombinant PTH are commercially available: the full-length PTH (PTH 1-84) and teriparatide (PTH 1-34). We present the first report of PTH-induced mild, asymptomatic, normochromic normocytic anemia in a postmenopausal woman treated sequentially with PTH 1-84 and PTH 1-34. Anemia was more pronounced with PTH 1-84 compared to PTH 1-34 and was reversed with each regimen discontinuation. We suggest monitoring of hematocrit and hemoglobin in PTH-treated patients, especially when PTH 1-84 is used.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Anemia / chemically induced*
  • Anemia / complications
  • Bone Density Conservation Agents / adverse effects*
  • Bone Density Conservation Agents / therapeutic use
  • Drug Monitoring
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Middle Aged
  • Osteoporosis, Postmenopausal / complications*
  • Osteoporosis, Postmenopausal / drug therapy
  • Parathyroid Hormone / adverse effects*
  • Parathyroid Hormone / therapeutic use
  • Recombinant Proteins / therapeutic use
  • Teriparatide / adverse effects*
  • Teriparatide / therapeutic use

Substances

  • Bone Density Conservation Agents
  • Parathyroid Hormone
  • Recombinant Proteins
  • Teriparatide