Taking a Look at Brittle Bones Disease

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Introduction
Osteogenesis imperfecta, also known as “brittle bones disease,” is a rare genetic disorder that affects the body’s production of type I collagen, which is the major protein of the body’s connective tissue. Generally, people affected with OI either have too little of type I collagen, or the quality of it is poor. Collagen defects account for about 85%.1 However, proteins in the bones may be affected in some of the more uncommon forms of OI. Because of this defect, people with OI have fragile bones, which break easily without an apparent cause.
Discussion
It is estimated that one out of 12,000 to 15,000 babies are born with OI.1 Males and females of all races and ethnicities are equally affected with OI. At this time, the exact number of Americans with OI is unknown, but the estimated range is between 20,000 and 50,000 people.2
Typically, the genetic defect is dominant and involves the COL1A1 and COL1A2 genes. There have been over 800 mutations of these genes discovered, and they are located on chromosomes 7 and 17.3 Because the majority of OI cases are from a dominant mutation, there is a 50% chance that a person with OI will pass it on to his or her children. Although, the majority of children with OI inherit the defective gene from one of their parents, the severity and symptoms can vary greatly between parents and their offspring. Sometimes, children with OI are born into a family with no history of the disorder. This percentage is approximately 35%.4 Estimates suggest that 7% of children with unexplained fractures have an underlying medical condition.
Osteogenesis imperfecta is classified by type. In 1979, Dr. David Sillence developed this classification system. Sillence’s system is based upon method of inherit...

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...Medication may also be given. The type of medication is called bisphosphonates, which are given by mouth or intravenously. Bisphosphonates reduce bone resorption. Studies are still being done on this treatment option. There is also research being done on possible stem cell treatment for OI.
Prognosis
Depending on the severity and number of symptoms, the prognosis for someone with OI can vary. The two most frequent causes of death for someone with OI are respiratory failure and accidental trauma. OI is a lifelong disease, but most adults and children tend to lead productive lives.
Conclusion
Osteogenesis imperfecta is a chronic disorder, and living with the condition can be stressful at times. However, those affected with OI tend to lead happy and successful lives. Unfortunately, the disorder is incurable. Hopefully, with continued research, a cure will be developed.

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