Fact 10. The Link Between Paget’s Disease and Viral Infections
The exact cause of Paget’s disease is still unknown, but researchers believe that both genetic and environmental factors are involved. One of the environmental factors that has been implicated in the disease’s development is viral infection, particularly with paramyxoviruses.
Paramyxoviruses are a group of viruses that includes measles, mumps, and respiratory syncytial virus. Several lines of evidence suggest a possible link between these viruses and Paget’s disease. For example, viral-like particles have been observed in the osteoclasts of individuals with Paget’s disease, and paramyxoviral proteins and genetic material have been found in the bone cells of affected individuals.
The theory is that a viral infection in genetically susceptible individuals may trigger an abnormal immune response, leading to the dysregulation of bone remodeling seen in Paget’s disease. This may explain why the disease often develops later in life, as it may take several decades for the viral infection to result in noticeable bone changes. (10)
