Question 1

What is Paget's Disease?

Accepted Answer

Paget's disease is a chronic bone disorder that disrupts the body's normal bone recycling process, causing bones to become enlarged, weakened, and misshapen. It is caused by abnormal osteoclast activity that leads to excessive bone breakdown followed by disorganized bone formation. The Calcium, Serum test is the most important test for monitoring Paget's disease complications, particularly elevated calcium levels after fractures or surgery.

Question 2

What causes Paget's disease?

Accepted Answer

Paget's disease is caused by abnormal activity of osteoclasts, the cells responsible for breaking down old bone tissue. In this condition, osteoclasts become overactive and break down bone too quickly, triggering the body to produce new bone at an accelerated rate. The newly formed bone is disorganized, larger, and weaker than normal bone, making it prone to deformities, fractures, and pain.

Question 3

What is the best test for Paget's disease?

Accepted Answer

The Calcium, Serum test is the most important blood test for Paget's disease because it detects dangerous elevations in blood calcium levels that can occur after fractures or surgery. While imaging studies and bone biopsies are used for diagnosis, monitoring calcium is essential for preventing life-threatening complications like hypercalcemia. The Prostatic Acid Phosphatase (PAP) test can also be useful in rare cases to monitor disease activity and bone metabolism changes, as PAP levels may become elevated when bone turnover is excessive.

Question 4

When should I get tested for Paget's disease?

Accepted Answer

You should get tested if you've been diagnosed with Paget's disease and recently experienced a bone fracture or underwent surgery, as these situations increase the risk of dangerously high calcium levels. Regular monitoring is also important if you have persistent bone pain, visible bone deformities, or if you're undergoing treatment for Paget's disease to track how well your therapy is working. Getting tested helps catch complications early and ensures your bone metabolism stays under control.

Question 5

What are the symptoms of Paget's disease?

Accepted Answer

Paget's disease often causes no symptoms in its early stages, but as it progresses, you might notice bone pain, especially in the pelvis, spine, skull, or legs. The affected bones may feel warm to the touch and can become visibly enlarged or deformed over time. Some people experience headaches if the skull is affected, hearing loss if bones in the ear are involved, or arthritis in joints near affected bones. Fractures can occur more easily because the abnormal bone structure is weaker than healthy bone.

Question 6

Who is at risk for Paget's disease?

Accepted Answer

Paget's disease most commonly affects people over 50 years old, with risk increasing significantly with age. Men are slightly more likely to develop the condition than women. Having a family history of Paget's disease substantially increases your risk, suggesting a genetic component. People of European descent, particularly those from England, Scotland, Central Europe, and Greece, have higher rates of the disease. Some researchers also suspect that certain slow-acting viral infections in bone cells may trigger the condition in genetically susceptible individuals.

Question 7

What happens if Paget's disease is left untreated?

Accepted Answer

If left untreated, Paget's disease can lead to serious complications including frequent bone fractures, severe arthritis in joints adjacent to affected bones, and permanent bone deformities. The excessive blood flow through abnormally dense bones can strain your heart, potentially leading to heart failure in severe cases. Nerve compression can occur when enlarged bones press on nerves, causing pain, numbness, or weakness. In rare cases, the abnormal bone cells can transform into bone cancer (osteosarcoma). Monitoring with blood tests helps prevent dangerous calcium elevations that can occur during fractures or after surgery.

Question 8

Can Paget's disease be diagnosed with a blood test?

Accepted Answer

Blood tests alone cannot diagnose Paget's disease, but they play a crucial supporting role in managing the condition. Diagnosis typically requires imaging studies like X-rays or bone scans, and sometimes a bone biopsy. However, blood tests like the Calcium, Serum test are essential for monitoring complications, particularly dangerous elevations in calcium that can occur after fractures or surgery. The Prostatic Acid Phosphatase (PAP) test can sometimes show elevated levels during active disease, helping doctors track bone metabolism and disease activity over time.

Question 9

How is Paget's disease treated?

Accepted Answer

Paget's disease is primarily treated with bisphosphonate medications, which slow down the excessive bone breakdown that characterizes the condition. These drugs help normalize bone remodeling and can reduce pain and prevent complications. Pain relievers like acetaminophen or NSAIDs may be recommended to manage bone and joint pain. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to repair fractures, replace damaged joints, or correct severe bone deformities. Physical therapy can help maintain mobility and muscle strength in affected areas. Regular monitoring with blood tests ensures treatment is working effectively and catches any complications early.

Question 10

How can I prevent Paget's disease?

Accepted Answer

There is no proven way to prevent Paget's disease since its exact cause remains unclear and likely involves genetic factors beyond your control. However, maintaining good bone health throughout your life may help minimize complications if you do develop the condition. Ensure adequate calcium and vitamin D intake through diet or supplements to support overall bone strength. Regular weight-bearing exercise helps maintain bone density and muscle strength. If you have a family history of Paget's disease, talk to your doctor about early screening, as catching the condition early allows for prompt treatment that can prevent serious complications.

Question 11

What can I do at home for Paget's disease?

Accepted Answer

While medical treatment is essential for Paget's disease, several home strategies can help manage symptoms and support bone health. Maintain a diet rich in calcium and vitamin D to support bone strength, including dairy products, leafy greens, and fortified foods. Gentle, regular exercise like walking or swimming helps maintain bone and muscle strength without putting excessive stress on affected bones. Use assistive devices like canes or walkers if needed to prevent falls and fractures. Apply heat or cold packs to painful areas for temporary relief, and ensure your home is safe with good lighting and handrails to reduce fall risk.

Question 12

How’s this work?

Accepted Answer

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short:
            
                In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
                If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
                Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
                If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
                When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
                Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
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Question 13

How do I know which test to get?

Accepted Answer

In the test options, find the test you want.
            If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option.
            Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

Question 14

When will my lab results be available?

Accepted Answer

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know.
            After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop!
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Question 15

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you.
            Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at
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            Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you.
            There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out.
            Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Question 16

Do you accept health insurance?

Accepted Answer

Only HSA & FSA is accepted.
            Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts.
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Question 17

Can I cancel my order?

Accepted Answer

Yes.
            We get it – sometimes your needs change.
            As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order.
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            You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

Question 18

How can I find a lab location near me?

Accepted Answer

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached!
            You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp).
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            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Paget's Disease Blood Test

What is Paget's Disease?

What causes Paget's disease?

What is the best test for Paget's disease?

When should I get tested for Paget's disease?

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