Health Information

Osteogenesis Imperfecta

Back to Previous Page

Osteogenesis Imperfecta

(OI; Brittle Bone Disease)

Definition

Osteogenesis imperfecta (OI) is a genetic problem of the bones. The most common effect is weakened bones that break easily. There are at least eight types of OI. Some are mild with no obvious signs, while others are more severe. Treatment plans may also be designed according to the type of OI.
The Bones of the Body
Nucleus factsheet image
Copyright © Nucleus Medical Media, Inc.

Causes

OI is caused by a problem in:
  • Gene that controls making of collagen—an important element in bones and connective tissues
    • Most common cause of OI.
    • Most often caused by a random change in the gene. Not often associated with a family history.
  • Gene that controls proteins in cartilage
    • Less common cause of OI.
    • An inherited genetic change from parents. There is often a family history.

Risk Factors

A family history of OI may increase your risk of certain types. There are no known risk factors for most types of OI.

Symptoms

In the four most common types of OI, symptoms may include:
  • Bone fractures
  • Hearing loss
  • Sclera (whites of the eyes) may have a blue, purple, or gray tint
  • Bone deformity
  • Short height
  • Loose joints and muscle weakness
  • Triangular face
  • Tendency toward spinal curvature
  • Brittle teeth
  • Breathing problems
  • Bruising easily

Diagnosis

Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done. OI may be diagnosed based on your history of fractures or appearance alone. Your doctor may order tests to confirm the diagnosis. To examine the bones your doctor may order:
Your doctor may also want to do genetic testing. This can help determine the type of OI. Genetic testing can be done through a blood, saliva, or skin biopsy.
If you are pregnant and have a family history of OI your doctor may do:

Treatment

There is presently no cure for OI. You and your medical team will create a plan to help you manage OI. In general treatment is directed toward:
  • Preventing health problems
  • Improving independence and mobility
  • Developing bone and muscle strength
Some supportive treatment options include:
  • Medication called bisphosphonates—to increase bone mineral density
  • Physical therapy—for range of motion and muscular strength exercises
  • Surgical implant of rods into long bones—to provide strength and prevent or correct deformities
  • Monitoring for development of fractures or scoliosis
  • Assistive devices like canes or wheelchairs—may be needed with certain types of OI
Problems related to OI, such as fractures, can be reduced or prevented by a healthy lifestyle. This should include:
  • Exercise—swimming is often an ideal and safe activity
  • Good nutrition
  • Not smoking
  • Avoid drinking excessive amounts of alcohol

Prevention

OI is caused by a genetic defect. There is no known way to prevent it.
Genetic counseling may be useful if you are planning on having a child and you have OI or a family history of OI. The counselor can let you know the risk your child may have of developing OI.

RESOURCES

NIH Osteoporosis and Related Bone Diseases—National Resource Center http://www.niams.nih.gov/

Osteogenesis Imperfecta Foundation http://www.oif.org/

CANADIAN RESOURCES

Canadian Orthopaedic Foundation http://www.canorth.org/

The Hospital for Sick Children http://www.sickkids.ca/

References

Osteogenesis imperfecta. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://dynamed.ebscohost.com/about/about-us . Updated March 29, 2012. Accessed December 27, 2012.

Osteogenesis imperfecta. Osteogenesis Imperfecta Foundation website. Available at: http://www.oif.org/site/PageServer?pagename=AOI%5FTypes . Accessed December 27, 2012.

Chevrel G, Meunier PJ. Osteogenesis imperfecta: lifelong management is imperative and feasible. Joint Bone Spine . 2001;68:125-129.

Kleigman RM, Behrman RE, Jenson HB, Stanton BF, eds. Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics. 18th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Saunders; 2007.

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.

Copyright © EBSCO Publishing
All rights reserved.

Health Encyclopedia view all topics