Infections and Bone Damage

Dear Colleagues,

Infectious diseases significantly affect bone health through various pathways, posing a multi-faceted threat.

Direct attack: Certain pathogens can invade bone tissue, causing osteomyelitis, a condition marked by inflammation, bone deterioration and impaired healing. Untreated, it leads to chronic problems, deformities and persistent pain.

Inflammatory-mediated damage: Many infectious diseases trigger chronic inflammation, disrupting normal bone formation and promoting excessive breakdown. This, seen in HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis or hepatitis, increases the risk of weaker bones and conditions such as osteoporosis.

Nutritional deprivation: Severe infections often lead to malnutrition due to reduced appetite, impaired nutrient absorption or increased energy demands. These deprive bones of vital elements such as calcium, vitamin D and protein, weakening them and increasing fracture risk.

Medication double-edged sword: Some medications used to treat infections can have unintended bone-related side effects. Corticosteroids, used for inflammation control, can suppress bone formation and accelerate its breakdown, increasing fracture risk. Antibiotics and antivirals may also have similar effects.

Hormonal disruption: Infectious diseases can disrupt hormone production, negatively impacting bone metabolism. Hyperthyroidism speeds up bone turnover, leading to osteoporosis, while hypogonadism weakens bones and increases fracture risk. These hormonal imbalances exacerbate bone loss and compromise bone integrity.

This Special Issue will cover a wide range of topics aiming to enhance current knowledge of pathogens and their respective diseases impacting bone. By acknowledging the complexities of this interplay, we can better protect bone health in the face of infectious challenges.

All types of articles will be considered for publication, including short reports, primary research articles and reviews.

We look forward to your contribution.

Dr. María Victoria Delpino
Dr. Jorge Quarleri
Guest Editors

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