Which term describes a fracture that occurs spontaneously due to disease?

The term that describes a fracture occurring spontaneously due to disease is 'pathologic fracture.' Pathologic fractures happen not as a result of an external force or trauma but due to an underlying medical condition that weakens the bone. Such conditions may include osteoporosis, certain cancers, or infections that compromise bone integrity.

Understanding this term is crucial because it emphasizes the importance of recognizing that certain illnesses can lead to weakened bone structures, making individuals more susceptible to fractures even with minimal or no trauma involved.

Other types of fractures mentioned, such as traumatic fractures, occur due to sudden injuries or impacts, while compound fractures involve a break that pierces through the skin. Compression fractures typically involve a bone being crushed, which can be a result of trauma or osteoporosis but is not inherently associated with spontaneous occurrences due to disease in the same way a pathologic fracture is.