For the past year, Ms. Luu had been experiencing back pain that radiated to her thighs and heels, causing leg weakness and difficulty walking. Her condition did not improve with previous treatments. Examinations and tests at Tam Anh General Hospital Hanoi revealed that Ms. Luu's overall health was excellent for her age, with no detected malignancies. However, X-ray images indicated porous bones and calcium loss. A bone density scan using a Dexa machine at the femoral neck and lumbar spine recorded a T-score of -3,2, classifying her condition as severe osteoporosis. Associate Professor, Doctor Dang Hong Hoa, Head of the Musculoskeletal Department, stated that this severe osteoporosis led to spinal degeneration, nerve compression causing sciatica, and restricted movement.

Medical staff guide Ms. Luu for a bone density scan using a Dexa machine. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital

Medical staff guide Ms. Luu for a bone density scan using a Dexa machine. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital

Doctor Hoa explained that for every point reduction in bone mineral density T-score, a patient's risk of fracture increases by 1,5-2 times. For individuals over 90 years old, osteoporotic fractures, particularly hip fractures, significantly elevate the risk of mortality due to complications such as embolism, pneumonia, deep vein thrombosis, or infection from prolonged immobility.

Early treatment for osteoporosis can prevent fracture complications in the elderly. Ms. Luu received internal medicine treatment to alleviate sciatica pain and restore mobility. Concurrently, she was given injections of the monoclonal antibody Denosumab to improve her bone density. The medication is administered subcutaneously once every 6 months. After a 30-minute observation period for acute reactions, patients can return home.

Associate Professor Hoa explained that monoclonal antibodies (mAb) are artificial proteins that mimic natural antibodies, representing a new generation of osteoporosis treatment utilizing biotechnology. Unlike current chemical drugs that treat osteoporosis by being toxic and killing osteoclast cells adhering to the bone, biological drugs inhibit the RANKL protein, preventing osteoclast formation from the outset. This directly blocks the pathogenic mechanism, leading to a faster reduction in bone destruction. Meanwhile, the body's natural bone regeneration process helps bones increase in density and regain strength. This biological medication also has fewer side effects and drug interactions. Notably, it is not excreted via the kidneys like chemical drugs, making it suitable for individuals with a high risk of bone loss who cannot use conventional osteoporosis treatments.

Associate Professor Hoa checks on Ms. Luu after her biological injection. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital

Associate Professor Hoa checks on Ms. Luu after her biological injection. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital

Viet Nam faces a high prevalence of osteoporosis, with approximately 3,6 million people currently affected by this condition. This number is projected to increase to over 4,5 million by 2030 due to population aging. However, younger individuals can also develop early osteoporosis due to sedentary lifestyles and limited sun exposure, leading to vitamin D deficiency.

Associate Professor Hoa recommends that individuals 40 years old and above, especially post-menopausal women and the elderly, should undergo regular osteoporosis screenings using bone density measurements to detect fracture risks early. Elderly individuals experiencing persistent back pain, height loss, hunchback, or unexplained joint pain should seek prompt examination at a specialized hospital for high-tech bone density assessment and timely, effective treatment.

Thanh Long