Fact 4. Understanding the Spectrum of Symptoms in Paget’s Disease
The symptomatic presentation of Paget’s disease is highly variable, with some individuals experiencing severe symptoms and others having almost none. In fact, it’s not uncommon for Paget’s disease to be discovered incidentally during an X-ray or bone scan performed for an unrelated condition. For those who do exhibit symptoms, they can range from mild to severely debilitating, depending on which bones are affected and the extent of the disease.
One of the most common symptoms associated with Paget’s disease is bone pain. This pain is often described as a deep, aching sensation that’s persistent and doesn’t alleviate with rest.
The pain results from the accelerated bone remodeling process inherent in Paget’s disease. As the osteoclasts resorb bone at an increased rate and the osteoblasts form new bone rapidly, the affected bone may become enlarged and distorted, leading to discomfort and pain.
In cases where Paget’s disease affects bones near a joint, it can result in joint pain and stiffness. This happens because the abnormal bone can cause increased pressure on the joint, leading to osteoarthritis, a condition characterized by degeneration of joint cartilage and underlying bone.
When Paget’s disease affects weight-bearing bones like the pelvis, spine, or legs, it can lead to bone deformities. These deformities can manifest as bowing of the legs, an unusually curved spine, or an enlarged skull. These physical changes can not only cause pain but also lead to problems with mobility and balance, affecting the individual’s overall quality of life.
Additionally, when the skull is affected, it can result in hearing loss due to the involvement of the bones in the ear. In severe cases, the rapid and abnormal remodeling process can also lead to fractures. (4)
