Objective: To review recent data concerning osteoporosis and osteopenia in childhood and adolescence, focusing on diagnosis, prevention and treatment.
Sources of data: Literature review of Medline and Lilacs databases (1992 to 2002).
Summary of the findings: Childhood osteoporosis is defined and classified. Imaging and laboratory diagnostic techniques are emphasized, as well as prevention and drug treatment.
Conclusions: Pediatricians should identify the risk factors for osteoporosis and guide patients in terms of its prevention and treatment.