Paget's Disease

Paget's disease of bone is an abnormality in tissue formation. When it is present, bone grows in overly rapid spurts. This is to compensate for faster-than-normal tissue die-off. Many patients with Paget's disease start out thinking they have age-related arthritis. The symptoms may be similar to those of arthritis or difficult to recognize as the condition gradually develops. There may be pain in the bones or joints or symptoms associated with neural compression.

Patients may complain of stiffness in the joints, since osteoarthritis often accompanies Paget's disease. When the condition affects the vertebrae of the spine, major nerves of the spinal column may be affected. Symptoms of this include pain that radiates through the limbs, numbness and tingling in the hands or feet. Some cases, however, include no pain symptoms but are prone to bone fractures.

Treating Complications of Paget's Disease

Discerning whether a patient has complications of osteoarthritis alone or the presence of abnormal bone growth can be performed using X-rays and a blood test for alkaline phosphatase levels, which will be higher than normal in Paget's disease sufferers. Sometimes, this disease is hereditary, and a blood test can be performed before it progresses and needs treatment.

Severe Paget's disease will create complications, such as degenerative-disc conditions, as the areas that support the rapidly growing bone tissue become worn. Doctors at the famed Bonati Institute can correctly diagnose spinal pathologies and any attendant neurological disorders. These successful evaluations lead to effective treatment in over 90 percent of patients.