Paget's disease is a chronic bone disorder that can cause painful bones and joints, and can lead to deformity and disability. The most common symptom of Paget's disease is pain in the affected area, such as the back, hips, or legs. Other symptoms include swelling, stiffness, and deformity of the affected bone or joint. To find out if you have Paget's disease, your doctor will likely order a series of tests, including a physical examination, X-rays, blood tests, and a bone scan.
Physical Examination
During a physical exam, your doctor will check for signs of Paget's disease. He or she may press on the affected area to check for tenderness or swelling. Your doctor may also check for signs of deformity or other bone or joint abnormalities.
X-Rays
X-rays are a common diagnostic tool used to diagnose Paget's disease. X-rays can detect bone abnormalities, such as enlarged or misshapen bones, and can show if the bones are weakened.
Blood Tests
Your doctor may also order a blood test to check for elevated levels of alkaline phosphatase (ALP), an enzyme that is often elevated in people with Paget's disease.
Bone Scan
A bone scan is a type of imaging test that can detect bone abnormalities, such as enlarged or misshapen bones. During the test, a radioactive dye is injected into your bloodstream and then a special camera is used to detect areas of increased activity in the bones.
If your doctor suspects that you have Paget's disease, he or she may recommend a biopsy. During a biopsy, a small sample of bone is removed and examined under a microscope to look for evidence of Paget's disease.