Approach to the patient with pregnancy and lactation-associated osteoporosis: A case report and a review of the literature

RATIONALE: Pregnancy and lactation-associated osteoporosis (PLO) is very rare, but it can cause severe vertebral compression fractures with disabling back pain. Although it is a rare, PLO must be kept in mind in the differential diagnosis in patients presenting with low back pain during or after pregnancy. PATIENT CONCERNS: A 23-year-old woman who suffered from lumbago and fractures in the vertebral column 1 month after delivery. DIAGNOSIS: Pregnancy and lactation-associated osteoporosis. INTERVENTIONS: Combination therapy of calcium and vitamin D were used for treatment, as well as regular follow-up. OUTCOMES: The patient's back pain had decreased significantly, the bone metabolic index, bone mineral density (BMD) had improved and she did not experience any recurrence. LESSONS: Early diagnosis and treatment of calcium and vitamin D, as well as the efficacy of PLO intervention monitoring and evaluation are critical for the success of treatment.