Sunday 16 September 2012

WOTD: Osteoporosis

The neck of the right femur is fractured due to osteoporosis. Photograph: medlib.med.utah.edu

"Osteoporosis" - An inherited disorder in which bones harden and become denser. Deficiency of one of the two types of bone cell responsible for healthy bone growth results in a disruption of normal bone structure. In its mildest form, there may be no symptoms, more severe forms of osteoporosis result in abnormally high susceptibility to fractures, stunted growth; deformity; and anaemia. Pressure on nerves may cause blindness, deafness, and facial paralysis.

Most treatments for osteoporosis aim to reduce the severity of symptoms. Bone marrow transplants of cells from which healthy bone cells might develop are undertaken in some cases.

"osteoporosis". British Medical Association (2007). Illustrated Medical Dictionary. 2nd ed. London: Dorling Kindersley (DK). p423-424.

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