Paget's Disease (osteitis deformans)

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What is Paget's Disease?

Paget's disease is a disorder of bone remodelling, resulting in enlarged and thickened bone that is structurally abnormal and brittle. This leads to bone pain, fractures, and deformities if untreated.

Who gets Paget's Disease?

Paget's disease of bone is common, affecting up to 4% of Australians over the age of 55 years. In recent years, the incidence of Paget's disease appears to be falling for unknown reasons.

Predisposing Factors

Paget's disease is usually seen in people who are middle-aged or elderly. It is slightly more common in males than females.

It is more common in the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand and North America, perhaps reflecting the high numbers of British migrants to those areas. A gene predisposing to the development of Paget's disease has been identified. Having a family history of Paget's disease also increases risk.

Progression

There are several phases in the development of Paget's disease:

1) There is an huge increase in bone resorption and bone turnover.
2) This is followed by increased production of bone which is poorly mineralised.
3) Bone deposition is disorganised, resulting in bone which is structurally weaker than normal bone, and hence at increased risk of fracture.

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