Pathophysiology and clinical manifestations of osteoporosis.

Osteoporosis is a complex skeletal disorder in which compromised bone strength increases the risk of fragility fractures. Recent scientific advances in bone biology and immunology have greatly expanded our insights into the pathogenesis of osteoporosis. For those with osteoporotic fractures, however, the physical and psychological effects remain severe. Primary care physicians need to understand the basic mechanisms of bone physiology and pathophysiology in order to both prevent and treat this devastating disorder.