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Ch. 6 Bones and Skeletal Tissues
Chapter 5, Problem 9

The disorder in which bones are porous and thin but bone composition is normal is a. osteomalacia b. osteoporosis c. Paget's disease.

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1
Identify the key characteristics of each disorder mentioned in the options.
Osteomalacia is characterized by softening of the bones due to vitamin D deficiency, leading to improper bone mineralization.
Osteoporosis is characterized by porous and thin bones, but the bone composition remains normal, leading to increased fracture risk.
Paget's disease involves abnormal bone remodeling, resulting in enlarged and misshapen bones.
Compare the characteristics of each disorder with the description given in the problem to identify the correct answer.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a bone disorder characterized by decreased bone density and quality, leading to an increased risk of fractures. In this condition, the bones become porous and fragile, but the mineral composition remains normal. It is often associated with aging, hormonal changes, and nutritional deficiencies, particularly in calcium and vitamin D.
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Osteomalacia

Osteomalacia refers to the softening of bones due to inadequate mineralization, primarily caused by a deficiency of vitamin D, calcium, or phosphate. Unlike osteoporosis, where bone density decreases while composition remains normal, osteomalacia results in a change in the bone's structure, making it weak and more prone to deformities and fractures.

Paget's Disease

Paget's disease is a chronic disorder that disrupts the normal cycle of bone renewal, leading to enlarged and weakened bones. It typically affects older adults and can result in pain, deformities, and an increased risk of fractures. The bone composition may be altered, with areas of excessive bone formation and others of resorption, distinguishing it from osteoporosis.
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