Osteitis deformans: understanding and treatment
Osteitis deformans, also known as Paget's disease (named after the English surgeon Sir James Paget, who first described this pathology), is a chronic bone disease characterized by a disruption of their normal structure and function. This condition is one of the most common types of degenerative skeletal diseases and often affects older people.
Osteitis deformans leads to excessive activity of osteoblasts (cells responsible for the formation of new bone tissue) and osteoclasts (cells responsible for the destruction of old bone tissue). The result is unbalanced bone formation and destruction, leading to thickening and deformation of the skeleton.
Osteitis deformans can affect one or more bones, but the spine, hip joint, thighs, legs and skull are most often affected. Symptoms of the disease may vary depending on the location of the lesion and the degree of its activity. Some of the most common symptoms of osteitis deformans include bone pain, skeletal deformities, fatigue, limited mobility, and recurrent fractures.
The reasons for the development of osteitis deformans are not fully understood, but genetic and environmental factors are believed to play a role in its occurrence. The disease may be caused by a combination of genetic predisposition and environmental exposures, including viruses.
The diagnosis of osteitis deformans can be made based on clinical symptoms, bone tissue examination using X-rays or other imaging methods, and biochemical blood tests to study the level of bone turnover markers.
Although osteitis deformans has no cure, there are treatments that can help relieve symptoms and slow the progression of the disease. Your doctor may prescribe medications that include bisphosphonates, which help control the activity of osteoblasts and osteoclasts. Physical therapy and exercise may also be helpful to maintain mobility and strengthen muscles.
In conclusion, osteitis deformans is a chronic bone disease characterized by bone deformation and structural impairment. Although there is no cure, modern treatments can improve patients' quality of life and slow the progression of the disease. Early detection, diagnosis and timely initiation of treatment play an important role in managing osteitis deformans and minimizing its consequences. Consulting with your doctor and developing a personalized treatment plan are key steps to effectively managing this condition.