OSTEOPOROSIS - Definition

Pronunciation:		`âstiowpu'rowsis
WordNet Dictionary

	Definition:	[n] abnormal loss of bony tissue resulting in fragile porous bones attributable to a lack of calcium; most common in postmenopausal women

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	See Also:	pathology

Webster's 1913 Dictionary

	Definition:	\Os`teopo*ro"sis\, n. [NL.; osteo- + Gr. ? pore.] (Med. & Physiol.) An absorption of bone so that the tissue becomes unusually porous.

Medical Dictionary

	Definition:	Loss of calcium and other substances from bones, causing bones to become weak and prone to fractures.

Biology Dictionary

	Definition:	Osteoporosis is a condition in which the organic matrix of the bone (osteoid), although reduced in amount, is normally mineralized (by calcium). This condition results in weakened bones and the affected person is subject to easily broken bones. This condition especially afflicts postmenopausal and elderly women.