An atypical subtrochanteric femoral fracture from pycnodysostosis: A lesson from nature

This case describes a man with an unusual cause of an atypical subtrochanteric fracture, pycnodysostosis. This condition results from mutations involving the cathepsin K gene. New antiresorptive treatments for osteoporosis inhibit the cathepsin K enzyme in osteoclasts. Therefore, there should be vigilant monitoring for the development of long‐term complications noted to occur in diseases of reduced osteoclast function, including pycnodysostosis, in patients receiving these novel antiresorptive agents. © 2011 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.