Aseptic necrosis is a rare medical disorder that can have life-changing impacts on those with it. So, if anyone with it, it’s essential to know the signs, symptoms, and treatments available for those who suffer from it. With the correct information and support, people can live healthy lives. This article will discuss what aseptic necrosis is, how it is diagnosed, what causes it, and the treatment available for it.
What is aseptic necrosis?
Aseptic necrosis, also known as avascular necrosis or osteonecrosis, is a rare and painful condition that follows when the blood supply to a bone is interrupted, resulting in bone tissue death, causing the bone to become brittle and break.
This can cause pain, stiffness, and joint deformity. It affects bones of any size and shape, including those in the shoulder, hip, knee, ankle, wrist, and elbow. In some cases, the condition may even affect multiple bones at once.
What causes aseptic necrosis?
Several factors of this disruption can increase the risk of developing aseptic necrosis. These include:
- Trauma or injury to the affected area: A traumatic event, such as an accident or fall, can damage the cells in the bones and cause them to become necrotic.
- Certain medical conditions: Conditions like radiation therapy, sickle cell anemia, and lupus can cause blood vessels to become damaged, resulting in aseptic necrosis. Similarly, organ transplant recipients may develop the condition due to the necessary prescriptions after the procedure.
- HIV: People with HIV can experience aseptic necrosis due to supplements they take to manage their infection.
- Diabetes: In diabetes, the increased glucose levels in the blood can damage small blood vessels and reduce blood flow to the bones, leading to aseptic necrosis.
These are just some of the potential causes of aseptic necrosis. It is important to remember that this condition is rare, and most people who experience any of the above risk factors will never develop aseptic necrosis. However, if you are experiencing any symptoms, you must speak with your doctor to rule out any underlying causes.
Symptoms of aseptic necrosis
The symptoms of aseptic necrosis can vary depending on the severity and location of the necrosis, but they generally include:
- Pain in the affected area may get worse with movement
- Swelling and tenderness of the affected joint
- Loss of range of motion and stiffness in the affected joint
- Loss of strength in the affected area
- Visible deformity or breakage of the affected bone
Though aseptic necrosis is typically diagnosed after the onset of signs, it’s important to note that some people with the condition may experience none. Therefore, if you are going through any of the above symptoms, you must talk to your doctor immediately.
How is aseptic necrosis diagnosed?
Aseptic necrosis is a complex disease that can be difficult to diagnose. It can take time and several tests to determine if a person has aseptic necrosis, as the symptoms may be similar to other conditions. The main diagnostic tools used to diagnose aseptic necrosis include:
- X-ray imaging: X-rays detect any changes in the bone structure or joint alignment, which can indicate aseptic necrosis.
- CT scan: A CT scan combines X-rays with computer technology to create a more detailed image of the inside of the body. This allows doctors to see the intricate details of the bones and joints, allowing them to get an accurate diagnosis of aseptic necrosis.
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): An MRI scan employs radio waves and magnetic fields to generate detailed images inside the body that can identify any disruption in the normal structure of the bone.
- Joint aspiration: This procedure involves draining fluid from a joint, such as the hip or knee, and testing it for any inflammation or infection.
Treatment options
Treatment of aseptic necrosis depends on the severity of the condition but generally involves rest and pain relief. In more severe cases, surgery may be needed. Treatment of aseptic necrosis typically involves:
- Rest: Resting the affected area can help to reduce stress on the bone and reduce the pain associated with the condition.
- Pain relief: Over-the-counter or prescription pain supplements can help to relieve the pain associated with aseptic necrosis.
- Surgery: If the damage to the bone is extensive, surgery like bone graft, joint replacement, and osteotomy may be needed. This could involve removing dead parts of the bone or inserting metal pins or screws to stabilize the affected area.
- Other treatments: Physical therapy and other forms of treatment may be recommended to help restore function and strength to the affected area.
It’s important to note that aseptic necrosis is a progressive condition, so treatment must be tailored to each individual and monitored closely. However, aseptic necrosis can be managed effectively with proper diagnosis and treatment.
