Osteogenesis imperfecta, sometimes called “brittle bone disease,” or OI for short, is a rare condition that makes your bones very fragile. Fortunately, It’s not very common in the United States, with only about 1 in 15,000 to 20,000 people having it. This article will explore what causes OI, its symptoms, and its different treatment methods. So, if you or someone you know has OI or wants to learn more about it, keep reading to get all the vital information.
What Is Osteogenesis Imperfecta?
Osteogenesis imperfecta is a rare illness that affects the way your bones grow and stay strong. Imagine your bones are like sticks. In people with this condition, these “bone sticks” are not as tough as they should be. This means they can break more easily than normal, even with small accidents or just by doing regular things. But it’s not just about bones. It can also make your muscles, joints, and other parts of your body not work like they should. Sometimes, it can even affect your eyes. It may come in different types, some more serious than others.
| Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Type I | The mildest form with fewer fractures, near-normal height, and mild bone deformities. |
| Type II | The most severe and often fatal form, with very fragile bones and severe deformities. |
| Type III | Severe bone fragility, multiple fractures from an early age, noticeable deformities, and shorter stature. |
| Type IV | Moderate to severe bone fragility, common fractures, and shorter stature with some deformities. |
| Type V | Similar to Type IV but may include “hyperplastic callus formation” after fractures. |
| Type VI | Rare, with bone fragility, fractures, and slower growth. |
| Type VII | Extremely rare, characterized by severe bone fragility, frequent fractures, and delayed bone development. |
| Type VIII | Very rare, involving severe bone fragility and frequent fractures. |
What Causes Osteogenesis Imperfecta?
Brittle bone disease is caused by a genetic issue passed down from parents or occurring as a new change in a person’s genes. This genetic problem affects the production of collagen, a crucial protein for strong bones. When the body can’t make enough collagen, bones become fragile and prone to breaking easily, leading to the symptoms of osteogenesis imperfecta. How you can recognize OI and when someone’s at risk of developing the disease? Continue reading on the next page.
