Health Encyclopedia
Fibrous dysplasia
Definition
Fibrous dysplasia is a bone disease that destroys and replaces normal bone with fibrous bone tissue. One or more bones can be affected.
Alternative Names
Inflammatory fibrous hyperplasia; Idiopathic fibrous hyperplasiaCauses
Fibrous dysplasia occurs in childhood, usually between ages 3 - 15. The condition does not run in families (not hereditary) and the cause is unknown.
Symptoms
- Bone lesions
- Bone pain
- Difficulty walking
- Endocrine gland abnormalities
- Fractures or bone deformities (rare)
- Unusual skin color (pigmentation)
The bone lesions may stop when the child reaches puberty.
Exams and Tests
The doctor will perform a physical examination. X-rays of bones are taken.
Treatment
There is no cure for fibrous dysplasia. Bone fractures or deformities are treated as appropriate. The patient is screened for endocrine disorders as needed.
Outlook (Prognosis)
The outlook depends on the severity of the condition and the symptoms that occur.
Possible Complications
- Cushing's disease
- Gigantism or acromegaly
- Heart rhythm disturbance
- Hyperthyroidism
- Rickets
When to Contact a Medical Professional
Call your health care provider if you have symptoms of this condition, such as repeated bone fractures and unexplained bone deformity.
Specialists in orthopedics, endocrinology, and genetics may be involved in your diagnosis and care.
Prevention
There is no known way to prevent fibrous dysplasia. Treatment aims to prevent complications, such as recurrent bone fractures, to help make the condition less severe.
Reviewed By: Chad Haldeman-Englert, M.D., Division of Human Genetics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
