Disorder - Osteogenesis imperfecta

Organ Systems Involved
Musculoskeletal

Presenting Signs

Osteogenesis imperfecta is a disorder that causes fragile bones. It is caused by a genetic abnormality in type 1 collagen. This is the material that makes most of the musculoskeletal structures such as skin, bone, cartilage, tendon and ligament. Affected kittens may show signs of lameness and multiple fractures with no evidence of trauma. This condition can range from mild to a fatal condition leading to still-birth or death of newborns. Osteogenesis imperfecta needs to be differentiated from secondary hyperparathyroidism, a condition that causes a similar set of symptoms. Osteogenesis imperfecta has been rarely documented in cats.

Cats at Risk

Kittens between 10 and 18 weeks of age. Fractures may be associated with animals jumping to the floor from a low height.

Treatment

Medical

PubMed References
Osteogenesis imperfecta

Contributor
Isao Matsumoto