Osteitis DeformansOsteitis deformans, also known as Paget’s disease, is a chronic disorder resulting in enlarged and/or deformed bones. Over the course of this disease, bone tissue forms abnormally and breaks down, weakening the overall bone and leading to arthritis, bone pain, deformities in the bone, and even fractures.
Osteitis deformans is probably caused by a combination of a hereditary susceptibility and a slow virus infection that may be present for years before any symptoms appear. It rarely occurs in people who are under forty years old; men and women are both affected equally. Osteitis deformans is fairly prevalent, affecting 1.5-8 percent of the population. Because of genetic factors, some areas of the world have a 40 percent prevalence in people over forty.
The most common symptom of osteitis deformans is bone pain in affected bones. Headaches and nerve pressure may occur if the skull or spine is affected. Later in the disease, spine curvatures and bowing of limbs may appear, as well as arthritic symptoms. If treatment is given prior to major changes in affected bones, the prognosis is good, though the disease itself is incurable. Treatments may include inpatient and outpatient drugs or surgery to correct deformities and replace joints. Good diet and exercise with calcium and vitamin D supplements may be prescribed as well.
Web Resources On Osteitis Deformans
Paget's Disease of the Bone
What is Paget's Disease
Book Resources On Osteitis DeformansPathophysiology & Treatment of Paget’s Disease of Bone by John A. Kanis
Paget’s Disease of Bone: Clinical Assessment, Present and Future Therapy by F. R. Singer
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