Osteitis fibrosa

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Osteitis fibrosa

Osteitis fibrosa is a complication of hyperparathyroidism (excess parathryroid hormone production) in which bone becomes softened and deformed and may develop cysts.

There are four parathyroid glands in the neck. They produce parathyroid hormone, which helps control calcium levels in the body. Parathyroid hormone increases bone "turnover" (metabolism) and may soften it.

Sometimes the parathyroid glands produce too much parathyroid hormone (hyperparathyroidism). In these cases, one gland may develop a growth (80% of cases), or all 4 glands may enlarge (15% of cases). Rarely, parathyroid cancer may cause the condition.

Hyperparathyroidism is most common in women over 60. Genetic changes cause the condition, and it sometimes runs in families. Neck radiation increases the likelihood of developing this disorder.

Before 1950, about half of people diagnosed with hyperparathyroidism had osteitis fibrosa. Now it is uncommon -- occurring in fewer than 10% of people with hyperparathyroidism -- because patients with hyperparathyroidism are diagnosed earlier and have milder elevations of calcium.

People with severe hyperparathyroidism, or those who have parathyroid cancer, are more at risk for developing osteitis fibrosa.

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