C-terminal telopeptide (CTX)

C-terminal telopeptide (CTX) is a byproduct released when bone tissue breaks down. It serves as a marker for measuring the rate of bone resorption, which is the process where old bone is broken down to make way for new bone. Elevated CTX levels can indicate increased bone loss, often seen in conditions like osteoporosis. Measuring CTX in the blood or urine helps healthcare providers assess bone health, monitor treatment effectiveness, and understand the balance between bone formation and breakdown in the body.