pathological fracture

A pathological fracture is a break in a bone that occurs due to a pre-existing condition weakening the bone, rather than from significant trauma. These conditions can include osteoporosis, cancer that has spread to the bones, or other diseases that compromise bone strength. Consequently, even minor stresses or everyday activities can lead to a fracture in weakened bones.1

In contrast, a stress fracture, also known as a fatigue fracture, develops from repetitive loading or overuse that exceeds the bone's capacity to repair itself. This microdamage accumulates over time, leading to pain and potentially a fracture, commonly seen in athletes or military recruits. While both involve bone breaks, pathological fractures stem from underlying disease, whereas stress fractures result from cumulative mechanical strain.21