M87: Osteonecrosis
Osteonecrosis refers to a group of conditions characterized by the death of bone tissue due to a lack of blood supply. It can affect any bone but is commonly noted in the hip, knee, shoulder, elbow, and ankle. A variety of factors can cause osteonecrosis, including trauma which can damage blood vessels, leading to the bone losing its blood supply. It may also be caused by certain diseases or conditions like sickle cell disease, lupus, and excessive alcohol consumption or long-term use of corticosteroids. Early stages of osteonecrosis may not present definite symptoms, but as the condition progresses, joint pain can occur even when at rest. In later stages, the pain could be severe enough to limit the joint's range of motion. When osteonecrosis occurs in joints bearing the body's weight such as knees and hips, it can lead to the bone's collapse and debilitating arthritis.
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