pathological fracture
A bone fracture occurring through abnormal bone weakened by underlying disease, often the presenting symptom of bone tumors.
Full Definition
A pathological fracture is a break in bone that occurs through diseased or abnormal bone tissue with minimal or no trauma. In orthopedic oncology, pathological fractures commonly result from primary bone tumors, metastatic disease, or benign conditions that weaken bone structure. These fractures often occur with activities that would not normally cause bone failure in healthy individuals. The presence of a pathological fracture can significantly impact staging, treatment planning, and prognosis, sometimes necessitating modifications to standard surgical approaches or radiation therapy protocols.
Usage
Usage note: Both 'pathological' and 'pathologic' are acceptable; use consistently within a document.
In Context
- "The patient presented with a pathological fracture through the metastatic lesion in the femur." — Emergency department note
- "Risk of pathological fracture was assessed using the Mirels scoring system." — Orthopedic consultation