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Paget's disease of bone--current thinking and management
S Hughes1, A L Peel-White, C K Peterson
1Research Department, Anglo-European College of Chiropractic, Bournemouth, U.K.
Summary
This review explores Paget's disease of bone, examining potential viral causes and current treatments like calcitonin and diphosphonates. Newer agents show promise for managing this bone disorder.
Area of Science:
- Bone biology and pathology
- Virology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Paget's disease of bone is a chronic disorder characterized by abnormal bone remodeling.
- Etiology remains uncertain, with a slow virus hypothesis gaining traction.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current knowledge on Paget's disease of bone.
- Focus on potential etiologies and evolving management strategies.
- Analyze the efficacy of existing and experimental treatments.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of English language medical and scientific journals.
- Searches of Index Medicus and MEDLINE databases (1983-1989).
- Inclusion of information from textbooks and patient support organizations.
Main Results:
- Evidence suggests a slow virus may be the causative agent, supported by inclusion bodies in osteoclasts.
- Current treatments (calcitonin, diphosphonates) aim to prevent bone resorption but have side effects.
- Experimental agents like gallium nitrate show promising preliminary results.
Conclusions:
- A viral etiology for Paget's disease is increasingly supported by research.
- While current treatments manage bone resorption, newer agents offer improved prospects.
- Further research is needed to elucidate the exact mechanism and optimize treatment.
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