Osteoporosis Secondary eMedicine PMR

Description: Osteoporosis, a chronic progressive disease, is the most common metabolic bone disease in the United States. Osteoporosis can affect almost the entire skeleton. Osteoporosis is a systemic skeletal disease characterized by low bone mass and microarchitectural deterioration of bone tissue, with a consequent increase in bone fragility. The disease often does not become clinically apparent until a fracture occurs. Consequently, many individuals, both male and female, experience pain, disability, and diminished quality of life as a result of having osteoporosis. The economic burden of the disease in the United States is considerable and will grow as the population ages. Prevention and recognition of the secondary causes of osteoporosis are first-line measures to lessen the impact of osteoporosis.
Synonyms and related keywords: metabolic bone disease, fracture, vertebral compression fracture, hip fracture, secondary osteoporosis, bone mineral density, BMD
Serota et al 2006