The disease is characterized by excessive breakdown of bone tissue, followed by abnormal bone formation. The new bone is structurally enlarged, but weakened with heavy calcification. The disease may localize to one or two areas within the skeleton, or become widespread. Frequently the pelvis, femur, tibia, vertebrae, clavicle, or humerus may be involved. Involvement of the skull may enlarge head size and cause hearing loss and blindness if the cranial nerves are damaged by the bone growth.
Prevention is unknown.
Localized requires no treatment. Orthopedic surgery may be required to correct a specific deformity. Drug therapy is aimed at suppressing bone cellular activity and mineral changes that influence the disease process. Calcitonin is given to retard bone resorption and affects bone lesions. Mithramycin may be given to decrease serum calcium .