Pathology - usmle_guy

[ArchivalUser]

A 71-year-old man presents to his primary care provider complaining of nonradiating lower back pain over the past several months. On review of symptoms, he mentions feeling shorter than previously. Physical exam reveals a slight abnormal curve of the spine. Radiographic studies show anterior vertebral wedging and vertebral end-plate irregularity.

What is the most likely underlying pathology of this process?

A. Decreased osteoblast activity, normal osteoclast activity
B. Increased osteoblast activity, decreased osteoclast activity
C. Intervertebral disc degeneration
D. Intervertebral disc space calcification
E. Decreased osteoblast activity, increased osteoclast activity

[ArchivalUser]

a?

[ArchivalUser]

E-

[ArchivalUser]

the answer is AA... this is senile osteoporosis which occurs in both sexes usually at more than 60 yrs of age....if it was a case of postmenopausal lady...answer would be decreased osteoblastic activity..and increased osteoclastic activity..

[ArchivalUser]

Great q's.thank you!