Diseases and Conditions
Fibrous dysplasia
Symptoms
Fibrous dysplasia may cause few or no signs and symptoms, particularly if the condition is mild. More severe fibrous dysplasia may cause:
- Bone pain, usually a mild to moderate dull ache
- Swelling
- Bone deformity
- Bone fractures, particularly in the arms or legs
- Curvature of leg bones
Fibrous dysplasia can affect any bone in the body, but the most commonly affected bones include the following:
- Thighbone (femur)
- Shinbone (tibia)
- Upper arm bone (humerus)
- Skull
- Ribs
- Pelvis
Rarely, fibrous dysplasia may be associated with a syndrome that affects the hormone-producing glands of your endocrine system. These abnormalities may include:
- Very early puberty
- Overactive hormone production
- Light brown spots on the skin
Increased bone pain also may be associated with the normal hormonal changes of the menstrual cycle or pregnancy.
When to see a doctor
See your doctor if you or your child develops any of the following:
- Bone pain that increases with weight-bearing activity or doesn't go away with rest
- Bone pain that interrupts sleep
- Difficulty walking or limping
- Unexplained swelling
- Changes in bone shape
- Difference in limb length