Paget's disease is a chronic condition that results in enlarged and deformed bones. Although any bone in the body may be affected, the most common sites are the spine, skull, pelvis, thighs, and lower legs. The disease does not usually spread to other normal bones.
Paget's disease is caused by a malfunction in bone formation. Normally, bones are constantly being broken down by cells called osteoclasts, and rebuilt by cells called osteoblasts. With Paget's disease, bones are broken down abnormally fast, and new bone replacement is loose and bulky, instead of strong and compact. These poorly formed bones may become weak, and may bend over time.
The exact cause of this bone malformation is unknown, but it is associated with heredity. Some experts believe that Paget's may be triggered early in life by a viral infection.
A risk factor is something that increases your chance of getting a disease or condition. Risk factors for Paget's disease include:
In the early stages, most people have no noticeable symptoms. In later stages, symptoms may include:
Depending on the bone site, Paget's disease may result in:
The doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, and perform a physical exam. Tests may include:
Treatment may include:
Medications may include:
Surgery may be required if you have one of the following conditions:
Recommendations include:
RESOURCES:
Osteoporosis and Related Bone Diseases National Resource Center
http://www.niams.nih.gov/Health_Info/Bone/
The Paget Foundation
http://www.paget.org/
CANADIAN RESOURCES:
The Arthritis Society
http://www.arthritis.ca/
Osteoporosis Canada
http://www.osteoporosis.ca/
References:
National Institutes of Health Osteoporosis and Related Bone Diseases, National Resource Center website. Available at: http://www.niams.nih.gov/Health_Info/Bone/ . Accessed October 11, 2005.
Questions and answers about Paget's disease of bone. The Paget Foundation website. Available at: http://www.niams.nih.gov/Health_Info/Bone/ . Published 2008. Accessed July 24, 2009.
Schneider D, Hofmann MT, Peterson JA. Diagnosis and treatment of paget's disease of bone. Am Fam Physician . 2002;15;65(10).
Last reviewed November 2009 by Robert E. Leach, MD
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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