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 hyperplasia

Causes, incidence, and risk factors

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.

Signs 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.

Expectations (prognosis)

The outlook depends on the severity of the condition and the symptoms that occur.

Complications

• Cushing's disease
• Gigantism or acromegaly
• Heart rhythm disturbance
• Hyperthyroidism
• Rickets

Calling your health care provider

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.