Pathological Fracture

• What are pathological fractures?


  Fractures that occur in diseased bone, often from minor trauma
• What is the most common cause of pathological fractures?

  Secondary tumors (metastatic)
• What are some key signs and symptoms of pathological fractures?


  Localized pain and deformity
• What diagnostic investigations are used for pathological fractures?

  Radiography, bone scans, and lab tests
• What is the focus of management for pathological fractures?


  Treating the underlying condition and fracture repair
• How are pathological fractures defined?


  Fractures that occur in diseased or compromised bone tissue
• What type of trauma typically provokes pathological fractures?


  Innocuous trauma that would not ordinarily result in a fracture
• What are the main causes of pathological fractures?

  • Tumors (Primary or Secondary)
  • Metabolic disorders (Osteoporosis, Hyperparathyroidism)
  • Bone diseases (Paget's disease)
• What is the most common metabolic cause of pathological fractures?

  Osteoporosis
• What are common manifestations of pathological fractures?


  Localized pain, unexpected fractures, deformity, and impaired function
• What conditions should be considered in the differential diagnosis of pathological fractures?

  • Osteoporosis
  • Paget's disease
  • Hyperparathyroidism
  • Bone tumors (Primary or Metastatic)
• What are the characteristics of osteoporosis in differential diagnosis?


  Generalized bone pain, history of previous fractures, and possibly kyphosis
• What symptoms are associated with Paget's disease?


  Bone pain, hearing loss, headaches, and deformities
• What symptoms may indicate hyperparathyroidism?


  Neuromuscular symptoms, bone pain, and kidney stones
• How do bone tumors present in differential diagnosis?


  Persistent bone pain, a palpable mass, or systemic symptoms
• What are the key investigations for pathological fractures?

  • Radiographic evaluation
  • Bone scans
  • Lab tests (serum calcium, phosphate, parathyroid hormone, alkaline phosphatase)
  • Biopsy (if necessary)
• What is the purpose of radiographic evaluation in pathological fractures?


  To identify the fracture and any associated bony abnormalities
• What do bone scans detect in the context of pathological fractures?


  Metabolic abnormalities and tumors
• What lab tests are important for diagnosing metabolic diseases related to pathological fractures?


  Serum calcium, phosphate, parathyroid hormone, and alkaline phosphatase
• When might a biopsy be necessary in the context of pathological fractures?


  For the diagnosis of tumors
• What are the two key areas of management for pathological fractures?


  • Treating the underlying disease
  • Fracture repair (immobilization, surgery, or other interventions)