Coronavirus infection can lead to severe bone loss in arms, legs and spine, Hong Kong researchers warn
- Researchers reveal virus can induce conditions akin to osteoporosis, leading to weakened bones and higher likelihood of fractures
- Study based on trials carried out on Syrian hamsters which experience the infection similar to humans
A coronavirus infection can cause severe inflammatory bone loss in the arms, legs and spine, according to a study by the University of Hong Kong (HKU), with researchers urging long Covid patients to receive early check-ups to treat issues.
The findings, based on trials carried out on Syrian hamsters which experience the infection similar to humans, revealed that the virus could induce conditions akin to osteoporosis, leading to weakened bones and a higher likelihood of fractures, Professor Kelvin Yeung Wai-kwok, from the department of orthopaedics and traumatology, told the Post on Thursday.
“Some long Covid patients have reported symptoms such as pain in their thigh, but others may not notice it until they fall down or have an accident,” Yeung said.
“If they are worried, they can consult an orthopaedic specialist and have a bone density scan, and obtain medication to treat the illness.”
Published in the journal Nature Communications, the study involved infecting the hamsters with the Delta variant of the virus through the nose and then collecting bone tissue from the animals.