This condition is caused by a lack of the collagen protein which builds bone, nails, skin, ligaments and teeth. The absence of this leads to bones fracturing extremely easily. Repeated fractures and weak bones can result in small stature. This condition can lead to deafness in adulthood.
What to look for: children with this condition will bruise easily. Before diagnosis they may be thought of as accident-prone.
It is important that these children have a calcium-rich diet.
People who can help: SENCO/Resource Teacher; Physiotherapist
Further Information
http://www.dundee.ac.uk/medther/tayendoweb/images/brittle_bone_disease.htm
http://www.webhealth.co.uk/a_to_z_of_health/brittlebone.asp
http://www.netdoctor.co.uk/diseases/facts/brittlebones.html