Review Question - QID 1055

The female athlete triad refers to the combination of low energy availability (with or without disordered eating), amenorrhea and osteoporosis. This disorder often goes unrecognized and can affect many female athletes. The consequences of lost bone mineral density can be devastating for the female athlete. Premature osteoporotic fractures can occur, and lost bone mineral density may never be regained. Early recognition of the female athlete triad can be accomplished with an integrated intervention between the family physician, coaches, parents and patient. Often these patients first present to the Orthopaedic surgeon or team physician for management of an osteoporotic fracture. Instituting an appropriate diet and moderating the frequency of exercise may result in the natural return of menses.