Osteogenesis imperfecta.

"Fragile bones" have been described in medical literature for centuries. Cases dating from antiquity include dental and skeletal details eerily similar to those found among modern patients whose bones fracture easily and whose bodies show signs of muscular and other weakness. Osteogenesis imperfecta--whose name implies "imperfect birth of bone"--is one of these inherited fragile bone syndromes. A generalized disorder of the body's connective tissues, it is most obvious in its effect on bone, but also involves the body's ligaments, tendons, fascia, eyes, skin, teeth and ears. Radiographs, bone scans and other imaging tools are essential in the initial diagnosis, assessment of fracture risk, and planning and tracking of treatment.