Abstract

The in vivo effects of potent bone-targeting agents (BTAs) on bone homeostasis, bone quality, and bone architecture are poorly understood, despite their widespread use in oncology patients. Traditionally, a trans-iliac bone biopsy with a 7 mm “Bordier” core needle was used to evaluate bone quality. As a more practical and less invasive method, we investigated the possibility of employing a 2 mm “JamshidiTM” core needle. The extent of bone metastases was used to divide patients with metastatic breast cancer on BTAs. After receiving two courses of tetracycline labeling, a posterior trans-iliac trephine biopsy and bone marrow aspirate were performed. Histomorphometry was used to measure the parameters of bone turnover and bone formation as well as the extent of tumor invasion in the samples.