Paget's disease is a disorder that involves abnormal bone destruction and regrowth, which results in deformity.
The cause of Paget's disease is unknown, although it might have to do with genes or a viral infection early in life.
The disease occurs worldwide, but is more common in Europe, Australia, and New Zealand.
In people with Paget's disease, there is an abnormal breakdown of bone tissue, followed by abnormal bone formation. The new bone is bigger, but weaker and filled with new blood vessels.
The disease may only be in one or two areas of the skeleton, or throughout the body. It often involves bones of the arms, collarbones, leg, pelvis, spine, and skull.
Most patients have no symptoms. Paget's disease is often diagnosed when an x-ray is done for another reason.
If they do occur, symptoms may include:
Tests that may indicate Paget's disease include:
This disease may also affect the results of the following tests:
Patients who may not need treatment include those who:
Patients with Paget's disease who are commonly treated include patients who have:
Drug therapy helps prevent further bone breakdown. Currently, there are several classes of medications used to treat Paget's disease. These include:
Acetaminophen (Tylenol) or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) may also be given for pain. Orthopedic surgery may be needed to correct a deformity in severe cases.
For additional support and resources, see the Paget Foundation.
Disease activity and symptoms can generally be controlled with current medications. A small percentage of patients may develop a cancer of the bone called osteosarcoma. Some patients will need joint replacement surgery.
Call for an appointment with your health care provider if you develop symptoms of Paget's disease.
Osteitis deformans
Updated by: Nancy J. Rennert, MD, Chief of Endocrinology & Diabetes, Norwalk Hospital, Associate Clinical Professor of Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M. Inc.
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