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  • Q&A with Australian Health Practitioners

    What is Paget's disease?

    My doctor diagnosed that a family member with osteoporosis but also suspected Paget's disease.

    She has thyroid but under control and no other health issues.

    Good levels of calcium and Vitamin D. But our doctor said she was at high risk of fractures.

    What and how do further tests confirm Paget's disease? What is the treatment? Does it work? and does bone strength improve?
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  • 2

    Thanks

    Dr Kevin Lee

    Endocrinologist, Nuclear Medicine Physician

    Consultant Physician in Endocrinology, Diabetes & Nuclear Medicine. I am on Twitter @dr_kevinlee. I am on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/kevinleefracp/ I help patients with obesity, diabetes, thyroid, … View Profile

    I am sadded to hear suboptimal access to specialists that can treat Paget's Disease.

    In brief, Paget's Disease of the bone is due to increased and disorganised formation of bone, leading to increased risk of fracture, compression effect of the bone pushing on nerves and other surrounding structures, and also possible increased risk of bone cancer in the long-term (osteosarcoma).

    There are many GPs, orthopaedic surgeons and endocrinologists who are familiar with the condition.

    There is government-subsidised class of drugs called bisphosphonates that are generally thought to be fairly efficacious in treating Paget's Disease.

    It is generally advisable to recommend ongoing follow-up with your GP to explore workup and treatment options for Paget's Disease, as it is a serious condition.

    Regards,

    Dr Kevin Lee
    BSc(Med), MBBS,MHS(Clin Epi), FRACP
    Consultant Physician Endocrinologist.

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