Paget`s Disease
Paget`s disease, osteitis deformans, is a slowly progressive condition in which bone is formed in a disorganized pattern.
Although the bones become larger, broader, thicker, and heavier, the disorganization of cells makes bones weaker. The most frequently involved bones are the skull, pelvis, spine, femur, and tibia.
Paget`s disease is almost always seen in people past middle age and more often in men. The cause is unknown.
A person with Paget`s disease may be stooped and have bowed legs, large feet, a large head, and a wide pelvis. Spinal nerve compression can cause symptoms. Pain relief and prevention of fractures are treatment priorities. Drugs may be given to reduce bone formation.
Reference :
Reference :
Farrell J : Nursing Care of the Older Person, J.B. Lippincott Company, Philadelphia, 1990.
