Paget’s disease of the bone is a disease in which bones become enlarged and deformed. This can lead to serious consequences. It is one of the common types of bone diseases. Some facts about Paget’s disease of the bone, its causes, symptoms diagnosis and treatments are given below.

Paget’s disease of the bone was first described by Sir James Paget. This occurs mostly after the age of 40. Men around are more prone to it than women. The percentage of population affected by it varies between 1.5 to 8 % based on the age and the different regions of the world.

In the patient suffering from Paget’s disease of the bone, the bones undergo excessive deterioration and formation. Eventually all this process gives rise to several symptoms. The symptoms include weakness, bone pain, development of arthritis, deformities, and fractures.

Several causes have been found to be associated with Paget’s disease of the bone. One of the major causes is slow virus infection. For example, infections of the paramyxoviruses viruses like measles, respiratory syncytial virus, etc. However, this happens only when the infection is present for some years.  In addition, genetic mutations as well can cause Paget’s disease of the bone. Because of this, it is hereditary as well.

The chances of occurrence in such children are between 10 to 40 % in the different parts of the world. Therefore, it is advised that such children should get themselves diagnosed for it.

The diagnosis will include the X-rays and clinical tests. X-rays are very useful in detecting Paget’s disease of the bone. This is because it can be easily distinguished on an X-ray. The clinical tests will involve the tests as testing the alkaline phosphate levels in the blood. If it is abnormal, however at the same time the calcium levels are normal then this is an indication of Paget’s disease of the bone. In addition to this abnormal aminotransferase levels also suggest its presence.

The prognosis for Paget’s disease of the bones is generally effective. If it is diagnosed and treated before any major, damages and complications occur in the body. The treatment will involve endocrinology, rheumatogy, orthopedics, neurology, and otaloryngology. However, no complete cure is available at this moment. All the treatment options available are for relief from the symptoms only. The treatment will consist of surgery, medications, and physical therapies. In addition to these diet and exercise as well are advised for the patients for reducing the symptoms.