Answer and Discussion of Quiz Set: W-001

5.    The overall rate of pathologic fracture associated with skeletal metastasis of prostate carcinoma is:  Answer

A.  Higher than other metastatic tumors

B.  The same as other metastatic tumors

C.  Lower than other metastatic tumor

Answer and Discussion: The answer is (A). Skeletal metastases are very common in prostate carcinoma and they are, in general, a poor prognostic sign. The most common site for skeletal metastases are in the axial skeleton including vertebral column, sternum, pelvic bone, and ribs followed by the femur. It is not surprised that the most common site of fracture is the vertebral bodies and the femur as these sites carry heavy loads. Metastatic prostate carcinoma is associated with bone forming osteoblastic reactions which makes the overall rate of pathologic fracture lower when compared to other skeletal metastasis particularly those with osteolytic features.