Osteoporosis is a systemic skeletal condition, characterized by a microarchitectural degradation of bone density and quality, giving low resistance and an increased risk of fracture. Osteoporosis is an important public health problem, with considerable medical, social and economic impact. Data accumulated in recent years demonstrate a significant incidence of osteoporosis in the group of patients with major collagen diseases; of these, Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) is the prototype of autoimmune disease in which osteoporosis and associated complications have a significant clinical impact. Although additional studies are needed to deepen the relationship between SLE - osteoporosis - associated fractures, we believe that these patients should be managed from the early stages of the disease.
As reported by literature, rheumatoid arthritis is a rheumatic disease with an increased risk of developing cardiovascular complications. Early detection of atherosclerosis by non-invasive techniques represent a current challenge of patient management. Current EULAR guidelines recommend careful monitoring of cardiovascular risk factors by stratification of patients and strict control of rheumatic disease activity to reduce it. The classic evaluation of intima- medium thickness (IMT) was completed by quantifying the degree of inflammation of the carotid plate using positron emission tomography or the degree of coronary calcifications by calculating Agatston score using Coronary Computer Tomography. These modern investigation techniques allow identification of several subclinical stages of atherosclerosis, the interest in their early detection resulting from the fact that, in this stage, through specific measures, the cardiovascular complications can be prevented.
