3. Deformed Bones – The Visible Manifestation of Paget’s Disease
In some cases, the disorganized bone remodeling that characterizes Paget’s disease can lead to visible deformities. When the affected bone is close to the skin’s surface, such as the skull or the long bones of the legs and arms, these changes can be noticeable.
Bone deformities in Paget’s disease occur due to the accelerated and erratic bone remodeling process. Old bone is broken down too rapidly, and the new bone that replaces it is often larger, weaker, and irregularly shaped. Over time, these changes can accumulate, leading to significant alterations in the bone’s shape and size.
The most common bone deformities seen in Paget’s disease include an enlarged skull, bowed legs, and an increased curvature of the spine. For instance, when the disease affects the leg bones, the rapid remodeling can cause the bone to bow outwards. Similarly, if the vertebrae are affected, they can become misshapen, leading to an exaggerated curvature of the spine, a condition known as kyphosis.
Such deformities can impact a person’s physical appearance and function. For instance, an enlarged skull can lead to an increased head size, potentially necessitating adjustments in things as simple as the size of one’s glasses or hat. Bowed legs and spinal curvature can affect balance and gait, making it challenging to walk or move around without discomfort or difficulty.
However, it’s important to note that bone deformities in Paget’s disease occur gradually over several years and are usually painless. Many people with these symptoms may be unaware of the changes until they are pointed out by others or noticed during a routine physical examination. (3)
