Methods to Diagnose, Treat and Prevent Bone Loss

Abstract

Methods of diagnosing and preventing bone loss and/or enhancing bone formation are disclosed. The invention additionally provides methods of diagnosing a predisposition to bone loss. The methods mathematically combine the information provided by imaging tests with the information provided by biomarkers to provide an index value. The index value is used for diagnosis of bone diseases, and to assess the progress of treatment of bone diseases.

What is claimed is: 
     
         1 . A method for diagnosis of bone disease, the method comprising: using a mathematical function to relate (i) the level of one or more biomarkers with (ii) a numerical value relating to one or more imaging descriptors comprising predetermined features from images defining bone disease characteristics to obtain a test value; and comparing the test value with a control value, wherein a test value which differs from the control value by a predetermined amount is indicative of bone disease.