• The primary outcome of Part I study is to investigate the prevalence of low BMD and vertebral fractures. Primary outcome of part II study is the improvement of bone mineral density measured by DEXA. [ Time Frame: baseline and wk52 ] [ Designated as safety issue: Yes ]
  

• 1.Evaluation of the changes in bone mineralization and architecture measured by Xtreme CT. 2.Evaluation of the changes in perfusion and marrow edema using MRI. [ Time Frame: baseline, month 6 and month 12 ] [ Designated as safety issue: Yes ]
  

In the first part of the study, 150 consecutive patients with a diagnosis of SLE were included in the study. All patients fulfilled the ACR revised criteria for the classification of SLE and provided written informed consent. Data collected at the time of study inclusion were age, disease duration, race, menstrual status, age at menopause, periods of amenorrhea, family history of osteoporosis, ultraviolet (UV) light intolerance, sunshine avoidance, use of sunscreens in the previous year, calculated mean daily dietary calcium intake in the last 3 months, history of (non)vertebral fractures after the age of 25 years, comorbidity, alcohol and tobacco intake, and exercise status.Body weight, height, and body mass index (BMI) were assessed. Disease activity was scored using the Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Disease Activity Index (SLEDAI) 54. Accumulated organ damage was assessed with the SLICC/ ACR damage index (DI) 55. A modified DI score was derived as the DI score excluding osteoporotic fractures as a damage item.BMD measurements of the hip (total hip and femoral neck) and the lumbar spine (L1-4; anteroposterior view) as well as lateral radiographs of the thoracic and lumbar spine (T5-L4)were performed. The prevalence of low BMD and vertebral fractures will be assessed.

In the second part of the study, 40 female SLE patients with steroid induced osteopenia will be enrolled in a 12-month, randomized, parallel-group, controlled study. Patients will receive either oral Ibandronate 150 mg once monthly plus daily alfacalcidol (0.001 mg) or placebo ibandronate once monthly plus daily alfacalcidol(0.001mg).In addition, the intake of dietary calcium will estimate by a questionnaire on the screening visit. All patients will receive a daily calcium supplement(500 mg).

Primary outcome is the improvement of bone mineral density measured by DEXA.

Secondary outcome includes:

1. Evaluation of the changes in bone mineralization and architecture measured by Xtreme CT.
2. Evaluation of the changes in perfusion and marrow edema using MRI.
3. Anti-proliferative and anti-inflammatory action of alfacalcidol using serum level of interleukin-6 (IL-6), transforming growth factor-beta-1, angiotensin-II, as well as urinary levels of TGF and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1).