What is the purpose of this test?
Order this N-Telopeptide Cross-links (NTx) Urine Test, Serial Monitor, Random, measures the concentration of NTx in a urine sample to help monitor bone resorption and formation, screen for metabolic bone disorders, and evaluate the effectiveness of treatment. This test also includes a serial monitor report which can assist the healthcare provider in determining whether therapy is effective in reducing bone resorption.
N-telopeptide (an N-terminal telopeptide of type 1 collagen, a peptide fragment from the amino-terminal end of the protein matrix) helps evaluate bone resorption. Physicians typically recommend taking the NTx test as a baseline measurement before starting osteoporosis therapy and again three to six months after treatment.
Osteoporosis occurs when bones thin and weaken. Because bone is an active tissue, it undergoes the process of both formation and resorption. Net loss occurs when the resorption rate exceeds the rate of formation. A new bone resorption assay detects biochemical markers, which reflect this activity, and identifies/ monitors abnormal bone resorption rates and the effectiveness of nutritional, supplemental, and lifestyle regimes. Osteoporosis primarily affects post-menopausal women.
Individuals may order this test to aid in diagnosing metabolic bone diseases and monitor the treatment of conditions such as:
- Osteoporosis
- Rickets
- Paget disease
- Osteogenesis imperfecta (brittle bone disease)
- Hypophosphatemic rickets
- Hypophosphatasia (HPP)
What conditions cause bone loss?
Several conditions can cause an imbalance between bone resorption and formation. Bone markers can help detect imbalance and bone loss. These biomarkers, such as N-Telopeptide Cross-links (NTx), have been studied in the evaluation and monitoring of osteoporosis, including age-related or secondary osteoporosis, which is bone loss due to an underlying condition. Bone loss may result from underlying conditions such as:
- Rheumatoid arthritis (RA)
- Hyperparathyroidism
- Cushing disease
- Kidney disease
- Multiple myeloma
- Prolonged use of certain drugs, such as anti-epileptics, glucocorticoids, or lithium
When should I order an N-Telopeptide Cross-links (NTx) Urine Test?
Individuals may order this test if they have experienced symptoms related to bone disease, such as osteoporosis. Common signs or symptoms of bone disease may include the following:
- Bone or joint pain
- Increased frequency of bone fractures
- Delayed growth and bone development
- Deformed bones
- Brittle teeth
