osteosklerose

Osteosklerose, known in English as osteosclerosis, is a radiological description of increased bone density. It results from abnormal bone formation or reduced bone resorption and may be diffuse or localized. The finding can be a normal variant in some individuals or a sign of an underlying disorder.

Causes of osteosklerose are diverse. They include hereditary conditions such as osteopetrosis (marble bone disease) and pycnodysostosis, where bone formation outpaces resorption. Acquired or secondary causes include osteoblastic metastases from cancers such as prostate or breast cancer, skeletal fluorosis, healing fractures, and chronic osteomyelitis. Metabolic and other systemic conditions may also contribute to areas of increased density.

Clinical features depend on the underlying cause. Many cases are asymptomatic and discovered incidentally on imaging. Symptoms, when present, can arise from nerve compression due to narrowed foramina (for example in skull bones), bone pain, anemia or susceptibility to infections in certain hereditary forms, and an increased risk of fractures if bone quality is abnormal.

Diagnosis relies on imaging and clinical correlation. Plain radiographs show increased bone density; CT or MRI can delineate the extent and effect on adjacent structures. Bone scans may show reduced uptake in sclerotic areas. Laboratory tests are guided by suspected underlying disease (for example, screening for bone marrow function in osteopetrosis).

Treatment targets the underlying condition and its complications. In severe infantile osteopetrosis, hematopoietic stem cell transplantation may be considered; management is otherwise supportive, addressing fractures, infections, anemia, and cancer if present. Prognosis varies widely with cause and severity.