NCT00024804 · National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR)
A Natural History Study of Bone and Mineral Disorders
What this study is about
This study has four objectives: 1) to provide investigators the opportunity to study bone specimens from patients with various skeletal diseases; 2) to treat patients with skeletal diseases at the NIH; 3) to expose NIH trainees to certain skeletal diseases; and 4) to gain more knowledge about skeletal diseases and stimulate further study of bone biology.
View original scientific description
This study has four objectives: 1) to provide investigators the opportunity to study bone specimens from patients with various skeletal diseases; 2) to treat patients with skeletal diseases at the NIH; 3) to expose NIH trainees to certain skeletal diseases; and 4) to gain more knowledge about skeletal diseases and stimulate further study of bone biology. Anyone with a disease that affects the skeleton may be eligible for this study. All evaluations, tests, procedures and treatments given study participants are used in the standard care of skeletal diseases. No experimental evaluations or treatments are offered. Patient evaluations include a medical history, review of medical records and routine physical examination. Based on the findings, other procedures may be recommended, including blood tests, urine tests, and imaging tests, such as X-rays, bone densitometry, bone scan, computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Bone specimens from participants will be collected for research use. Specimens will be obtained from bone removed during a patient s planned surgical procedure performed for medical care, or patients may be requested to have a bone biopsy removal of a small piece of bone tissue as part of the patient evaluation procedure.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- The study population will include participants with known or suspected bone disease and/or with a known or suspected disorder of mineral metabolism. To be eligible to participate in this study, an individual must meet all of the following criteria:
- Age 1 day of life or older
- Have a known or suspected bone disease, as demonstrated by any one of the following: a fracture, or abnormal bone findings on x-ray, CT scan, MRI, or bone densitometry, and/or a medical or family history consistent with or suggestive of a bone disease.
- Have a known or suspected disorder of mineral metabolism, as demonstrated by any one of the following: laboratory measurement above or below the reference values for either blood or urine calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, parathyroid hormone or vitamin D, or other measures of mineral metabolism, and/or a medical or family history consistent with or suggestive of a disorder of mineral metabolism.
Exclusion criteria
- 1\. Participants unwilling or unable to abide by the procedures of the protocol.
Where
- Bethesda, Maryland
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Jun 24, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations