Paget's Disease of Bone is a focal disorder of bone metabolism that results in enlargement of the affected bone and deformity, a process that is sometimes accompanied by pain and/or disfigurement. The cause of Paget's Disease of Bone is unknown. Some investigators think a virus seeds the disease, while others feel it is mostly genetic in origin. Paget's Disease reflects a slow progression of bony overgrowth. It usually becomes apparent in middle age, and may cause no distress until later in life when the pagetic bone presses on nerves, interferes with the function of joints or distorts features. Complications then can include arthritis, back pain with injury to nerves, hearing loss, dental problems, bowing of limbs, fracture of bone or, rarely, bone cancer. Early treatment is now available for Paget's Disease. It is hoped - but yet unproven - that such therapy will prevent future complications. More information about Paget's Disease of Bone is available through the Paget Foundation for Paget's Disease of Bone and Related Disorders. Fact sheets and brochures are available to answer many frequently asked questions about this disease. Or you can contact us directly at the New England Registry for Paget's Disease of Bone.
The New England Registry for Paget's Disease of Bone, 55 Fruit Street, Bulfinch 165, Boston, MA 02114