Osteogenesis
Osteogenesis Imperfecta (abbreviated as OI) is a genetic disorder. Easily breaking away bones is the main characteristic of this genetic disorder. Bones of person suffering from Osteogenesis Imperfecta can usually break with little cause or even without any apparent cause.
It is considerably less serious and rarely found health condition. Many people with Osteogenesis Imperfecta live successful and productive life.
Osteogenesis Imperfecta Causes
As mentioned earlier this is a genetic disorder condition. Production of collagen by the boy’s own system is affected by the genetic defect. Collagen is an important protein constituent of connective tissues of the human body. The production of collagen is affected (less quantity produced or produced collagen is of poor quality) when a person gets affected by Osteogenesis Imperfecta.
|
|
Different Forms of Osteogenesis Imperfecta
Osteogenesis Imperfecta is classified in main five categories
- Category I
- This include mild OI and is most common form
- Most fractures in this type of Osteogenesis Imperfecta occur before puberty.
- Muscle weakness and loose joints are main symptoms
- Triangular face
- The bone stature is normal or near-normal
- Deformity of bone is minimal or absent
- In most cases Eye whites turn gray, blue or purple
- Though the structure of collagen is normal collagen is produced in less quantity
|
- Category II
- This category is most severe
- Number of fractures and intensified bone deformity is seen in this category of Osteogenesis Imperfecta
- It may prove lethal, especially immediately after birth due to respiratory disorders caused by it
- Poor quality or inadequate collagen is formed
- Underdeveloped lungs and small stature is seen
|
- Category III
- Usually, fractures are present since birth and bones can break easily
- Eye whites may have blue, gray or purple tint
- Stature is short
- Loose joints and poor development of arm and leg muscles
- Rib-cage is barrel-shaped
- Triangular face
- Usually severe bone deformit
- Spinal curvature
- Inadequate production of collagen
|
- Category IV
- Bones can break easily specifically before attaining puberty
- Smaller stature when compared to average stature
- Bone deformity ranges from mild to moderate
- Spinal curvature tendency
- Triangular face
- Rib-cage is barrel-shaped
- Improper formation of collagen
|
- Category V
- This category is identical to that of Category IV
- Abnormally large calluses (hypertrophic) at fracture sites
- Membrane calcification of forearm bones
- Restricted forearm movement (rotation)
|
Treatment of Osteogenesis Imperfecta
Unfortunately, there is no known cure for Osteogenesis Imperfecta. Main aim of treatment is to prevent and control symptoms, enhancing development of muscle strength and bone mass and ensuring maximum mobility.
Physical therapy and extensive dental or surgical procedures are common treatments. Independent mobility can be maximized with the help of mobility aids such as braces and wheelchairs.
