On the possibility of over-diagnosis of osteoporotic vertebral fracture at mid-thoracic level

Osteoporotic vertebral fracture (OVF) is the most common osteoporotic fracture. Prevalent OVFs increase the risk of future vertebral and non-vertebral osteoporotic fracture independent of bone mineral density (BMD) (1-4). OVFs are associated with poor life quality, impaired bending and rising, difficulties in the activities of daily living, frailty, higher risk of hospitalization, and higher mortality (4-8). Appropriate interventions for VF can reduce the occurrence of hip fractures, preventing further OVF, reducing pain and related disabilities (1,9-11). It is important to identify and report OVF, so that appropriate investigation and treatment can be instigated.