Beta – Cross Laps | Bone Resorption Marker

Beta-CrossLaps (β-CTx) is a laboratory blood test used to assess the bone resorption (breakdown) process. This marker is a collagen type I degradation fragment that is released into the blood during bone mass reduction. The test is used for osteoporosis diagnosis and is particularly important for monitoring osteoporosis treatment.

Beta-CrossLaps allows for evaluating whether the prescribed treatment is effective, or if there is a need to adjust the dosage, frequency of medication use, or even apply another medication regimen. Compared to bone density measurement (DEXA), which reflects changes only after 1–2 years, the beta-CrossLaps test shows a therapeutic response within 1–2 months from the start of treatment.

The test is recommended to determine:

• before starting osteoporosis treatment (baseline level);
• after a few months from the start of treatment (to evaluate effectiveness);
• regularly during treatment to assess dynamics.

Test principle: Beta-CrossLaps are determined from venous blood by immunochemical method, usually in the morning, as their concentration varies throughout the day. Results are presented in ng/l units.

Recommendations:

• Recommended when suspected or diagnosed with osteoporosis.
• Useful for evaluating the effectiveness of osteoporosis treatment, especially in the early stages.
• Prescribed for postmenopausal women, patients treated with glucocorticoids, or those at risk of bone loss.
• Performed before the start of treatment and repeated after 1–3 months.
• It is recommended to come fasting for the test, and the blood sample is taken in the morning (due to daily fluctuations).