Osteodystrophies
What is it?
Osteodystrophy is a medical term used to describe abnormal changes in the growth and formation of bone. It is most commonly the result of chronic kidney disease. In children, osteodystrophy can cause bone malformation and short stature, while adults may experience brittle bones and fractures. Because the disease is the result of the malabsorption of calcium, osteodystrophy is most commonly treated with calcium supplements.
13 Alikes with Osteodystrophies
Learn from others
who are experiencing
Osteodystrophies.
Additional names
This group contains additional names:
- Albright (-McCune)-Sternberg syndrome
- Multiple congenital exostoses
Signs & symptoms
The symptoms of osteodystrophy vary by the timing of the onset of disease and other factors. The disease in children is very different from that in adults.
In early disease, there may be no notable signs or symptoms. It is only when bone turnover and/or mineralization are significantly impaired that the cumulative effect becomes more apparent. When symptoms do appear, they can manifest with:
* Bone pain
* Joint pain
* Bone deformity
* Pathologic fracture
In adults, symptoms of renal osteodystrophy aren't usually seen until people have been on dialysis for several years. Over time, the bones can become thin and weak, leading to the classic triad of bone pain, joint pain, and fractures.
Diagnosis
Renal osteodystrophy is most often diagnosed when a person is already being treated for end-stage renal disease, although the condition can develop well before then.
If osteodystrophy is suspected, it can be diagnosed with a combination of a physical examination, blood tests, imaging studies, and a bone biopsy. Even so, osteodystrophy can be difficult to diagnose in the early stages, especially in children, and may require an experienced nephrologist to interpret findings.
Treatment
Osteodystrophy is treated with a combination of medications, nutritional supplements, diet, and exercise. Given that renal osteodystrophy most often occurs in people with kidney failure, hemodialysis is typically involved.
☝️ This is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult with your physician before making any medical decision.
Learn more about our editorial process for content accuracy.
Source of Information - We analyze big data of more than 23 million patients de-identified medical records from the following sources:
.png)
Find people who are
experiencing a similar
medical reality
Free
Alike Wisdom
Instantly get answers to medical questions with our AI, built from the collective wisdom of our community facing similar experiences
You might also like