Final answer:
Osteoporosis results in fragile bones due to an imbalance between osteoclast and osteoblast activity, leading to increased fracture risk. Osteoporotic fractures often occur in the femur, vertebrae, and wrist and are a major cause of mortality due to complications. Bone density measurements are used for diagnosis.
Step-by-step explanation:
Osteoporosis is a condition marked by a decrease in bone density, which leads to bones becoming fragile and more susceptible to fractures. In osteoporosis, the activity of osteoclasts, which are cells that break down bone tissue, surpasses that of osteoblasts, the cells responsible for bone formation. This imbalance results in the gradual loss of bone mass and structural deterioration of bone tissue, making fractures more likely to occur even with minor stress or, in severe cases, spontaneously.
Osteoporotic fractures can be life-altering, especially in elderly patients. Long bones like the femur are commonly affected, and hip fractures may require immediate surgery. Osteoporotic fractures can lead to severe complications such as deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, and pneumonia, which can increase the risk of early mortality.
In the context of osteoporosis, bone tissue is weakened due to a reduction in the thickness of compact bone and the number and size of trabeculae in cancellous bone. This condition is most commonly diagnosed by measuring a patient's bone density and comparing it with normal peak bone density levels. Understanding the risk factors and mechanisms of osteoporosis is crucial for the prevention and management of bone fractures.