Pathological fracture is a medical term used to describe a bone fracture caused by an underlying disease. The spelling of the word follows the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) phonetic transcription, where "pəˌθɒləˈdʒɪkəl" represents the pronunciation. The word begins with a "p" sound, followed by a schwa sound, then a "th" sound, an "o" sound, an "l" sound, and so on. It's critical to spell medical terms correctly to avoid misunderstanding and ensure correct medical treatment. Pathological fracture is usually caused by conditions like osteoporosis, bone tumors, and infections in the bone.
A pathological fracture refers to a type of bone fracture that occurs due to an underlying disease or condition that weakens the strength and integrity of the affected bone, resulting in a breakage with minimal trauma or force. This type of fracture typically happens in bones that are already compromised because of an existing pathology, such as tumors, osteoporosis, infections, or bone cysts.
Pathological fractures are different from regular fractures as they occur as a consequence of an already weakened bone rather than a result of direct trauma. The weakened bone structure makes it more susceptible to fractures and can often occur spontaneously or with minimal pressure, such as during routine activities or mild falls.
Symptoms of a pathological fracture may include sudden and severe pain, swelling, deformity or misalignment of the affected bone, limited range of motion, and difficulty bearing weight. Diagnosis is typically made through imaging techniques such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs.
Treatment for a pathological fracture involves addressing the underlying cause of bone weakening while also stabilizing the fractured bone. This can involve surgical intervention, such as bone grafting, fixation through pins, rods, or plates, or use of supportive devices like braces or casts. Rehabilitation and physical therapy may also be necessary to regain function and mobility.
Overall, pathological fractures are a result of an underlying condition weakening the bone structure, leading to an increased risk of fracture. Prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment not only address the specific fracture but also focus on managing the underlying condition to prevent future occurrences.
The word "pathological" originates from the Greek roots "pathos", meaning "disease" or "suffering", and "logos", meaning "study" or "word". It refers to anything related to the study or understanding of diseases.
On the other hand, the term "fracture" is derived from the Latin word "fractura", which means "a break" or "a breach".
So, when combined together, "pathological fracture" is a term coined to describe a bone fracture that occurs due to an underlying disease or condition weakening the bone, making it more susceptible to breakage.