11/17/23, 2:28 PM Osteogenesis Imperfecta | Johns Hopkins Medicine

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Osteogenesis Imperfecta
 WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

Osteogenesis imperfecta (OI) is an inherited (genetic) bone disorder that is present at birth.
It is also known as brittle bone disease.

A child born with OI may have soft bones that break (fracture) easily, bones that are not formed normally, and other
problems. Signs and symptoms may range from mild to severe.

The main goal of treatment is to prevent deformities and fractures.

OI is a lifelong condition.

What is osteogenesis imperfecta in children?

Osteogenesis imperfecta (OI) is an inherited (genetic) bone disorder that is present at birth. It is also known as brittle
bone disease. A child born with OI may have soft bones that break (fracture) easily, bones that are not formed normally,
and other problems. Signs and symptoms may range from mild to severe.

There are at least 8 different types of the disease. The types vary greatly, both within and between types. They are
based on the type of inheritance (see below), and signs and symptoms. These include findings on X-rays and other
imaging tests. The OI types are as follows:

Type I. Mildest and most common type. About 50% of all affected children have this type. There are few fractures and
deformities

Type II. Most severe type. A baby has very short arms and legs, a small chest, and soft skull. He or she may be born
with fractured bones. He or she may also have a low birth weight and lungs that are not well developed. A baby with
type II OI usually dies within weeks of birth

Type III. Most severe type in babies who don’t die as newborns. At birth, a baby may have slightly shorter arms and
legs than normal and arm, leg, and rib fractures. A baby may also have a larger than normal head, a triangle-shaped
face, a deformed chest and spine, and breathing and swallowing problems. These symptoms are different in each baby.

Type IV. Symptoms are between mild and severe. A baby with type IV may be diagnosed at birth. He or she may not
have any fractures until crawling or walking. The bones of the arms and legs may not be straight. He or she may not
grow normally.

Type V. Similar to type IV. Symptoms may be medium to severe. It is common to have enlarged thickened areas
(hypertrophic calluses) in the areas where large bones are fractured

Type VI. Very rare. Symptoms are medium. Similar to type IV.

Type VII. May be like type IV or type II. It is common to have shorter than normal height. Also common to have shorter
than normal upper arm and thighbones.

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Type VIII. Similar to types II and III. Very soft bones and severe growth problems.

What causes osteogenesis imperfecta in a child?

OI is passed on through the genes. The different types are passed on in different ways. The gene may be inherited from
one or both parents. Or the gene can be passed on from an unexplained change (spontaneous mutation) of a gene.

Most babies with OI have a defect of one of two genes. These genes help in forming collagen. Collagen is a main part of
connective tissue that connects and supports the whole body, including the bones. Because of the defect, there is not
enough collagen. Or the collagen is abnormal.

What are the symptoms of osteogenesis imperfecta in a child?

The symptoms of OI vary greatly within and between types. Symptoms of OI include:

Easily broken bones

Bone deformities, such as bowing of the legs

Discoloration of the white of the eye (sclera), may be blue or gray in color

A barrel-shaped chest

A curved spine

A triangle-shaped face

Loose joints

Muscle weakness

Skin that easily bruises

Hearing loss in early adulthood

Soft, discolored teeth

The symptoms of osteogenesis imperfecta may look like other medical conditions. Always see your child's healthcare
provider for a diagnosis.

How is osteogenesis imperfecta diagnosed in a child?

Your baby's healthcare provider will ask questions about your baby's medical history, your family and pregnancy
history, and your baby's current symptoms. He or she will examine your baby, looking for signs and symptoms of OI.
The milder forms of OI may be difficult to diagnose in a baby.

Your baby's healthcare provider may refer you to specialists with experience in diagnosing and treating OI. For
example, your baby may be referred to a specialist in genetic conditions (geneticist) or in bone disorders (orthopedist).

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Your baby's healthcare provider or the specialists may recommend the following diagnostic tests:

X-rays. These may show many changes such as weak or deformed bones and fractures.

Lab tests. Blood, saliva, and skin may be checked. The tests may include gene testing.

Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry scan (DXA or DEXA scan). A scan of the bones to check for softening.

Bone biopsy. A sample of the hipbone is checked. This test requires sleep medicine (general anesthesia).

How is osteogenesis imperfecta treated in a child?

Your child’s healthcare provider will figure out the best treatment based on:

How old your child is

Your child’s overall health and medical history

How sick your child is

How well your child handles certain medicines, treatments, or therapies

If your child’s condition is expected to get worse

Your opinion and preference

The main goal of treatment is to prevent deformities and fractures. And, once your child gets older, to allow him or her
to function as independently as possible. Treatments for preventing or correcting symptoms may include:

Bisphosphonate medicines. These are medicines that help to strengthen bones and prevent fractures. They may be
used in most types of OI. They may be given by mouth or by IV (intravenous line) into a vein.

Care of fractures. The lightest possible materials are used to cast fractured bones. To prevent further problems, it is
recommended that a child begin moving or using the affected area as soon as possible.

Orthopedic treatment. May include bracing and splinting. Surgery may also be needed.

Rodding. Metal rods are inserted to help hold in place (stabilize) and prevent deformities of long bones.

Dental procedures. Treatments, including capping teeth, braces, and surgery may be needed.

Physical and occupational therapy. Both are very important in babies and children with OI.

Assistive devices. Wheelchairs and other custom-made equipment may be needed as babies get older.

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What are the possible complications of osteogenesis imperfecta in

a child?
Complications may affect most body systems in a baby or child with OI. The risk of developing complications depends
on the type and severity of your baby's OI. Complications may include the following:

Respiratory infections, such as pneumonia

Heart problems such as poor heart valve function

Kidney stones

Joint problems

Hearing loss

Eye conditions and vision loss

How can I help my child live with osteogenesis imperfecta?

OI is a lifelong condition. Managing it may include the following:

Avoiding fractures. If your baby has medium to severe OI, he or she needs to be picked up, diapered, and dressed very
carefully. His or her position should be changed throughout the day. As your baby gets older, it will be important to help
him or her avoid injuries. A physical or occupational therapist, as well as other healthcare providers, can help.

Avoiding infection. Your baby may be more likely to get colds and other respiratory infections. And he or she may get
sicker with an infection. Make sure your baby has all of his vaccines (immunizations). During cold and flu season, stay
away from crowds. Make sure that you wash your hands well. As your child gets older, teach him or her to do the same.

Dealing with pain. Fractures and deformities can be very painful. Talk with your baby's healthcare provider about pain
medicine or other ways to lessen pain.

Dealing with challenges. As your child gets older, he or she may have emotional and physical challenges.

Regular medical and dental checkups. Your baby will need regular checkups and tests. These include eye and dental
exams.

Weight management. When your child gets older he or she may gain weight because of the decreased physical
activity.

When should I call my child's healthcare provider?

Call your baby's healthcare provider if your baby:

Is injured

Has changes in his or her behavior that may mean an injury or other problem. For example, your baby may be fussy or
irritable.

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Has signs of a cold or flu, like a fever or cough

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