Which factor increases suspicion of compression fractures in patients with a history of corticosteroid use?

• A. Age over 40
• B. Age over 55
• C. Age over 60
• D. Age over 50

Answer: (D)

The factor that increases suspicion of compression fractures in patients with a history of corticosteroid use is age over 50. As patients age, their bones tend to lose density, and the use of corticosteroids further contributes to this problem by inhibiting the bone formation process and promoting bone resorption. This combination significantly raises the risk of osteoporosis and subsequent vertebral compression fractures.

In patients over 50, the likelihood of osteoporosis is already a concern, and those who have used corticosteroids—even in moderate amounts—experience a heightened risk. Therefore, identifying individuals in this age group with a history of corticosteroid use prompts greater clinical suspicion for the presence of compression fractures.

While higher age groups mentioned in the other options may also be associated with increased risk, age over 50 marks a critical threshold where both the natural aging process and the effects of corticosteroids can meaningfully intersect to elevate the risk of compression fractures.