Osteopetrosis

Osteopetrosis is a congenital condition (Read about "Birth Defects") in which the bones are overly dense. This happens because the body makes more new bone than it breaks down. Although the bones are dense, however, they are not very strong and tend to break more easily. In addition, problems with the bone marrow mean that the person's immune system may be weakened. (Read about "The Immune System")

The National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS) says there are three major types of osteopetrosis.

• Malignant infantile form - which is very severe. It is inherited when both parents have an abnormal gene that is passed to the child.
• Intermediate form - which is less severe than the malignant infantile form. It is found in children younger than 10 years old, and usually does not shorten life expectancy.
• Adult form - which is a milder type of osteopetrosis that is found in adults between 20 and 40 years old. This form rarely causes a significant reduction in life expectancy.

Symptoms can include increased bone fractures (Read about "Bone Fractures"), frequent infections, blindness and/or deafness. (Read about "Hearing Loss") Treatment options include medications and physical therapy. (Read about "Rehabilitation") In severe cases, bone marrow transplant can be an option. (Read about "Transplants")

Related Information:

    Skeletal System

    Hip Fractures

    Orthopedics