One sign of osteoporosis is
a. osteosarcoma.
b. osteomalacia.
c. osteomyelitis.
d. a spontaneous wrist fracture.
e. hypocalcemia.
The correct answer and explanation is :
Correct Answer:
d. a spontaneous wrist fracture.
Explanation (Approx. 300 Words):
Osteoporosis is a medical condition characterized by decreased bone mass and deterioration of bone tissue, leading to increased bone fragility and susceptibility to fractures. Among the most common and telling signs of osteoporosis are spontaneous or low-impact fractures, particularly in the wrist, hip, and vertebrae. These fractures often occur with minimal or no trauma, such as during a minor fall or even from routine activities like lifting an object or coughing.
A spontaneous wrist fracture is especially significant because it typically results from weakened bones unable to support normal stress. This type of fracture serves as an early warning sign, especially in postmenopausal women and elderly individuals whose bones have lost density due to hormonal changes, aging, or nutritional deficiencies (e.g., low calcium or vitamin D).
Let’s briefly look at why the other options are incorrect:
- a. Osteosarcoma is a type of bone cancer, not a sign of osteoporosis. While it affects the bones, it presents with pain, swelling, and tumor growth, and is unrelated to the low bone density seen in osteoporosis.
- b. Osteomalacia involves softening of bones due to vitamin D deficiency but is not the same as osteoporosis. It primarily affects bone quality rather than density.
- c. Osteomyelitis is a bone infection, often bacterial, that causes localized bone pain, fever, and inflammation. It is not caused by bone thinning.
- e. Hypocalcemia, or low calcium in the blood, may contribute to bone disorders but is a lab finding, not a direct clinical sign of osteoporosis.
In summary, a spontaneous wrist fracture is a hallmark indicator of osteoporosis and often prompts further diagnostic evaluation like a bone density scan (DEXA). Early detection is key to preventing future fractures and managing bone health effectively.