Understanding Avascular Necrosis: Causes and Risk Factors

5. Avascular Necrosis Risk Factors

Several factors can put an individual at risk for developing avascular necrosis. In addition to those potential causes noted above, excessive alcohol use can put an individual at risk, as well, because it leads to fatty deposits developing in blood vessels.

Another common cause of avascular necrosis is long-term use of steroids in high doses. The long-term use of bisphosphonates, medications used to increase bone density, can also lead to the condition.

Radiation therapy and organ transplantation, especially kidney transplants, are also related to avascular necrosis. Medical conditions such as sickle cell anemia, pancreatitis, systemic lupus erythematosus, diabetes, and HIV/AIDS can cause the condition, as well.