Which strategy helps monitor osteoporosis risk in IBD patients on steroids?

• A. Liver function tests
• B. DXA bone density scanning and calcium/vitamin D supplementation; minimize corticosteroid exposure
• C. Fecal calprotectin level only
• D. Annual colonoscopy

Answer: (B)

The important idea is to monitor and reduce osteoporosis risk in IBD patients who are taking steroids by checking bone density and supporting bone health. DXA bone density scanning provides an objective measurement of bone mineral density, allowing you to diagnose osteopenia or osteoporosis and track changes over time. Pairing this with calcium and vitamin D supplementation helps ensure the bone remodeling process has the nutrients it needs, which is especially important when steroid use can cause bone loss. In addition, minimizing corticosteroid exposure—using the lowest effective dose and steroid-sparing therapies when possible—directly lowers ongoing risk.

Liver function tests, while useful for other aspects of health, don’t assess bone density. Fecal calprotectin levels measure intestinal inflammation, not bone health. Annual colonoscopy is for colorectal cancer surveillance, not osteoporosis monitoring.