Parathyroid, Osteoporosis & Other Metabolic Bone Diseases
Metabolic bone diseases are conditions that affect bone strength, structure, or metabolism. Common examples include osteoporosis, disorders of the parathyroid gland, rickets, and osteomalacia. These conditions can lead to fractures, deformities, and impaired quality of life.
Common Types & Causes
- Osteoporosis: Low bone density leading to fragile bones, caused by aging, hormonal changes, calcium or vitamin D deficiency, and sedentary lifestyle.
- Hyperparathyroidism: Excess parathyroid hormone (PTH) leading to calcium loss from bones, kidney stones, and fractures.
- Rickets: Vitamin D deficiency in children causing soft, weak bones and skeletal deformities.
- Osteomalacia: Vitamin D deficiency in adults leading to softening of bones and bone pain.
- Paget’s Disease of Bone: Abnormal bone remodeling causing weak, enlarged, or deformed bones.
- Genetic or rare metabolic bone disorders: Conditions like osteogenesis imperfecta affecting collagen and bone strength.
Common Symptoms
- Bone pain or tenderness
- Fractures with minimal trauma
- Deformities or curvature of bones
- Reduced height (in osteoporosis or rickets)
- Muscle weakness or fatigue
- Kidney stones or urinary symptoms (in parathyroid disorders)
Evaluation & Diagnosis
- Medical and family history assessment
- Physical examination for skeletal deformities
- Bone mineral density testing (DEXA scan)
- Blood tests to measure calcium, phosphate, vitamin D, and parathyroid hormone
- Imaging studies (X-ray, MRI, CT) for bone structure assessment
- Genetic testing for rare inherited disorders
Treatment & Management
- Calcium and vitamin D supplementation
- Medications to strengthen bones (bisphosphonates, hormone therapy)
- Treatment of underlying hormonal imbalances (e.g., parathyroid surgery or medications)
- Weight-bearing and muscle-strengthening exercises
- Healthy diet rich in calcium and protein
- Fall prevention strategies and lifestyle modifications
- Regular monitoring and follow-up
Early detection and proper management of metabolic bone diseases can prevent fractures, maintain bone health, and improve quality of life. Dr. Vipin Singhal provides expert care in metabolic bone disorders with a focus on diagnosis, treatment, and long-term monitoring.
