The skeletal system is composed of bones, tendons (which connect muscle to bone) and cartilage. These components form the structure of your body and allow you to move. Unfortunately, diseases exist in which your skeletal system deteriorates due to cancer, lack of calcium or genetics. There are specific diseases that affect the skeletal system.
Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is a condition in which your bones are extremely fragile. The exact cause of osteoporosis is unknown. However, the Mayo Clinic indicates that there is a disruption of the bone formation process. Normally, your bones break down and new bone forms. In osteoporosis, this cycle is interrupted and you break down more bone than you produce. Not consuming enough calcium plays a contributory role in causing osteoporosis. Symptoms of osteoporosis include loss of height, a stooping posture (kyphosis) and intense back pain. This back pain typically occurs when you fracture your backbone. Treatment for osteoporosis includes such medications as alendronate, raloxifene and calcitonin. These drugs work to increase bone density and reduce bone breakdown.
Osteogenesis Imperfecta
Osteogenesis imperfecta, like osteoporosis, is a condition in which your bones are extremely delicate and fragile. MedlinePlus indicates that this condition typically presents at birth. Its cause results from an alteration of the gene that produces collagen, a fibrous tissue necessary to produce bone. Physical manifestations of osteogenesis imperfecta include many bone fractures, a blue hue to the white part of your eye (sclera) and hearing loss. In its advanced stages, osteogenesis imperfecta can lead to curvature of your spine (scoliosis), a stooped posture (kyphosis) and bowing of your arms and legs. Bisphosphonates, such as alendronate, typically treat osteoporosis but can be used to treat osteogenesis imperfecta as well. Taking part in exercising (low-impact) can also strengthen your bones. In some instances, your doctor can perform surgery to repair any bone imperfections.
Osteosarcoma
Osteosarcoma is a form of bone cancer in which abnormal cells grow within your bones and cause malignant tumors. It typically affects the bones of your thighs, shins and upper arms. MedlinePlus says that symptoms of osteosarcoma include bone pain, easy bone fractures, limping (especially when the tumor is invading your leg) and swelling or tenderness at the tumor site. Your doctor will typically establish a chemotherapy regimen for you to destroy the bone cancer cells. Chemotherapy drugs, such as cyclophosphamide and Cisplatin, will kill these cancer cells. After chemotherapy treatment, a surgeon will remove the remaining part of the tumor.
