What is osteogenesis imperfecta (brittle bone disease)?
Osteogenesis imperfecta (brittle bone disease) is a lifelong genetic condition affecting the body’s ability to make collagen protein, causing fragile and brittle bones. Without the right amount of collagen, bones are weak and highly susceptible to trauma, causing frequent fractures and breaks.
Symptoms include broken bones, bleeding, bruising, frequent nosebleeds, bowed legs, difficulties breathing, scoliosis, fatigue, sensitive skin, short stature, and weak muscles and tissues. While there is no cure, the condition can be managed.
What issues do children with osteogenesis imperfecta face?
PAIN
Weakened bones can lead to abnormal bending, painful breaks, and fractures.
DISCRIMINATION
Children with frequent broken bones are vulnerable to bullying and exclusion.
LIMITED MOBILITY
Children can lose the ability to walk, preventing them from attending school.
How does surgery change a child’s life?
- The condition can be managed with medicine to strengthen, and surgery to straighten, the bones.
- Children experience restored confidence and hope as they are accepted into community life.
- Mobility improves so children can run, play, walk pain-free, and complete school, which leads to more opportunities.
