PURPOSE OF REVIEW:

To present an updated summary of the relationship between inflammation and localized and generalized bone loss in the rheumatic diseases.

RECENT FINDINGS:

In addition to the well established role of inflammatory cytokines in promoting enhanced osteoclast function and bone loss, recent work has discovered the cytokine milieu may also inhibit osteoblast function and bone repair. The WNT and bone morphogenetic protein pathways provide molecular links between inflammation and altered bone homeostasis in chronic inflammatory states. These pathways and others have been the targets of emerging therapies for the management of inflammatory bone loss.

SUMMARY:

Inflammation and bone loss are linked through a number of molecular pathways. Both of these processes need to be addressed when designing an effective treatment strategy for the rheumatic diseases.