Understanding Osteodystrophies: Causes, Symptoms, and Management

Explore Over 11,000+ Conditions, Medications, and Symptoms.

Get a personalized feed by signing up for free.

All Conditions

Osteodystrophies

by Alike Medical Team ∙ Updated on June 13, 2023

Additional names

This group contains additional names: - Albright (-McCune)-Sternberg syndrome - Multiple congenital exostoses

General

Osteodystrophy is a medical term used to describe abnormal changes in the growth and formation of bone. It is most commonly the result of chronic kidney disease. In children, osteodystrophy can cause bone malformation and short stature, while adults may experience brittle bones and fractures. Because the disease is the result of the malabsorption of calcium, osteodystrophy is most commonly treated with calcium supplements.

13 people with Osteodystrophies are on Alike.

"Alike is the place to get answers from people who firsthand share your health challenges"

Signs & symptoms

The symptoms of osteodystrophy vary by the timing of the onset of disease and other factors. The disease in children is very different from that in adults. In early disease, there may be no notable signs or symptoms. It is only when bone turnover and/or mineralization are significantly impaired that the cumulative effect becomes more apparent. When symptoms do appear, they can manifest with: * Bone pain * Joint pain * Bone deformity * Pathologic fracture In adults, symptoms of renal osteodystrophy aren't usually seen until people have been on dialysis for several years. Over time, the bones can become thin and weak, leading to the classic triad of bone pain, joint pain, and fractures.

Diagnosis

Renal osteodystrophy is most often diagnosed when a person is already being treated for end-stage renal disease, although the condition can develop well before then. If osteodystrophy is suspected, it can be diagnosed with a combination of a physical examination, blood tests, imaging studies, and a bone biopsy. Even so, osteodystrophy can be difficult to diagnose in the early stages, especially in children, and may require an experienced nephrologist to interpret findings.

Treatment

Osteodystrophy is treated with a combination of medications, nutritional supplements, diet, and exercise. Given that renal osteodystrophy most often occurs in people with kidney failure, hemodialysis is typically involved.

Note

☝ We provide information on prescription and over-the-counter medicines, diagnosis, procedures and lab tests. This material is provided for educational purposes only and is not medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.

National Institutes of Health ∙ World Health Organization ∙ MedlinePluse ∙ Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

☝ All information has been reviewed by certified physicians from Alike

Latest Discussions

Albrightgirl

Back surgery and Albright

Alike Wisdom

Instantly get answers to medical questions with our AI, built from the collective wisdom of our community facing similar experiences

Back surgery and Albright

Alike is a transformative platform that goes beyond just bringing together patients; it meticulously connects individuals based on multiple critical factors, such as age, gender, comorbidities, medications, diet, and more, fostering a community of knowledge, support and empathy.

About Alike Wisdom Blog FAQ Editorial Team All Conditions All Posts All Communities Support

Your Privacy Stories Community Guidelines Terms of Use Privacy Policy Helplines Contact Us Group Chats Guidelines Moderation Process

Sign In