What Causes Osteogenesis Imperfecta?
The cause of OI is believed to be due to a genetic defect that causes imperfectly-formed, or an inadequate amount of, bone collagen – a protein found in the connective tissue. What are the types and symptoms of OI? The following are the most common symptoms for osteogenesis imperfecta. However, each individual may experience symptoms differently. Although symptoms may vary, generally they are used to classify the four forms of OI, each of which represents the severity of the condition. According to the Osteoporosis and Related Bone Diseases National Resource Center, part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the types of OI and their symptoms include the following: Type I: • most common • mildest form • bones fracture easily • can usually be traced through the family • near normal stature or slightly shorter • blue sclera (the normally white area of the eye ball) • dental problems (brittle teeth) • hearing loss beginning in the early 20s and 30s • most fractures occur before pube
