Paget's Disease
Alternate Names : Osteitis Deformans
Definition A metabolic bone disease that involves bone destruction and regrowth that results in deformity.
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Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
The cause of Paget's disease is unknown. Early viral infection and genetic causes have been theorized. The disease occurs worldwide, but is more common in Europe, Australia, and New Zealand where it is seen in up to 5% of the elderly population.
The disease is characterized by excessive breakdown of bone tissue, followed by abnormal bone formation. The new bone is structurally enlarged, but weakened and filled with new blood vessels.
The disease may localize to one or two areas within the skeleton, or become widespread. Frequently, the pelvis, femur, tibia, vertebrae, clavicle, or humerus are involved. The skull may enlarge head size and cause hearing loss, if the cranial nerves are damaged by the bone growth.
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