Glossary / Lexicon

Osteogenesis Imperfecta or OI refers to a disease caused by an abnormality in the collagen protein that the body requires for bones as well as other structures, such as teeth, ligaments and skin. The condition often leads to an increased likelihood of fractures, as well as fragile teeth, lax joints, bruising and blue or grey sclera (whites of eyes). Some people with brittle bone diseases develop deafness and some have short stature. Osteogenesis Imperfecta (OI) is also known as Brittle bone disease