NLR: a warning signal for vertebral fracture?

By Ana Espino | Published on March 16, 2026 | 3 min read


Osteoporosis is a systemic disease characterized by reduced bone mineral density and deterioration of bone microarchitecture. Vertebral fractures account for approximately 40% of osteoporotic fractures and are frequently asymptomatic, with underdiagnosis rates reaching up to 60%. Their occurrence increases the risk of subsequent fractures by nearly fivefold.  

Current risk assessment tools, such as FRAX, show limited sensitivity for predicting vertebral fractures specifically, particularly at early stages. These tools mainly incorporate static clinical risk factors and include few dynamic biological markers.