Abstract
BACKGROUND: Osteoporosis weakens bone strength and heightens fracture risk, posing a growing challenge with the aging global population. Inflammation is recognized as a pivotal factor in the etiology and progression of osteoporosis. This study endeavors to delineate the contemporary landscape of osteoporosis research in the context of inflammatory conditions, aiming to provide a foundation for future investigative trajectories within this pivotal domain. METHODS: Through a systematic literature review from 2000 to 2024 using Web of Science dataset, this study analyzed 6513 scholarly works by VOSviewer 1.6.18 and CiteSpace 6.2.4., two sophisticated bibliometric tools. RESULTS: The review identified a corpus of 6513 scholarly works, reflecting a marked escalation in annual scholarly output. China has distinguished itself as the preeminent contributor to the field, with the University of California System emerging as the most prolific institution. The Journal of Bone and Mineral Research stands out as a leading publication in this area. Notable figures such as Xu Jiake and John A. Kanis have made significant contributions and are key figures in this domain. A thematic analysis of references and keywords has revealed that gut microbiota and oxidative stress are burgeoning areas of interest within the osteoporosis research community. CONCLUSION: This exhaustive review synthesizes the current global publication on the nexus of inflammation and osteoporosis, along with the identification of emerging frontiers and focal points, offering strategic guidance to researchers in charting their future investigative endeavors. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s43465-025-01411-8.