Alternative Names
Osteitis deformans
Definition of Paget’s disease of the bone
Paget’s disease is a disorder that involves abnormal bone destruction and regrowth, which results in deformity.
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
The cause of Paget’s disease is unknown, although it might have to do with genes or a viral infection early in life.
Signs and tests
Tests that may indicate Paget’s disease include:
Treatment
Not all patients need treatment. For example, patients who have abnormal blood tests only may not need treatment.
Expectations (prognosis)
Disease activity and symptoms can generally be controlled with current medications. A small percentage of patients may develop a cancer of the bone called . Some patients will need joint replacement surgery.
Review
Ari S. Eckman, MD. Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M. Inc. – 11/23/2009
