Paget's Disease of Bone
Paget's Disease of Bone is a condition in which bones in certain areas of the body grow abnormally larger that causes the bones to become softer and weaker. In a normal condition bone cells that build new bone work with cells that break down old bone to keep a balance, but in Paget's disease both types of cells become over active, which enlarges the bones but impairs the structure.
Paget's disorder does not develop early symptoms, but symptoms such as stiffness in joints and enlargement of bones occur slowly and without much indication until bone pain becomes severe. The enlargement may compress some of the nerves, which increases the pain. Sometimes the enlargement will lead to inflammation and pain of arthritis in near by joints. Bone fractures are more likely to occur because of the weakened bone structure. No treatment is necessary unless the pain becomes severe or if there is risk of other serious problems developing as a result of the bone enlargement such as arthritis. Under a doctor's care, drugs can be given for pain relief and also medication to slow the progress of Paget's disorder.
