Final answer:
Osteoporosis is caused by an imbalance in bone resorption and formation, with risk factors including age, gender, and lifestyle. There are primary and secondary types, based on the origin of the disease. It leads to bone fragility and an increased risk of fractures, especially in the vertebrae, wrist, and femur.
Step-by-step explanation:
Potential Causes and Risk Factors of Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is a skeletal disorder characterized by decreased bone density and mass, leading to fragile bones that are prone to fracture. Potential causes include an imbalance between bone resorption and bone formation as part of the normal bone remodeling process. This imbalance can be exacerbated by factors such as hormonal changes, specifically a decline in estrogen, as well as inadequate intake of calcium and vitamin D, lack of physical activity, and certain medications like corticosteroids. Risk factors for osteoporosis encompass older age, female sex, European or Asian ancestry, family history of osteoporosis, small body frame, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and sedentary lifestyle.
Types/Classifications of Osteoporosis
There are two main types of osteoporosis: primary osteoporosis, which can occur as part of the normal aging process or be related to menopause, and secondary osteoporosis, which is due to other conditions or medications that affect bone metabolism. Both types result in increased bone fragility.
Clinical Manifestations of Osteoporosis
Clinical manifestations of osteoporosis include a reduction in bone density that can be diagnosed through bone density measurements. These changes lead to skeletal weakness and an increased risk of fractures, commonly affecting the vertebrae, wrist, and proximal femur. The most dangerous aspect of osteoporosis is its predisposition to fractures, which can lead to debilitating pain, disability, and sometimes mortality due to complications such as deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, and pneumonia. Osteoporotic fractures can occur with minor or no stress, sometimes from simple actions like sneezing or falling.