Which type of Osteogenesis Imperfecta is often considered lethal?

Osteogenesis Imperfecta (OI) is a group of genetic disorders characterized by fragile bones that break easily. Among the different types of OI, Type 2 is particularly severe and often considered lethal.

Type 2 OI is characterized by multiple fractures occurring in utero and at birth, often leading to stillbirth or early neonatal death. The severity of this form is due to mutations affecting the synthesis of collagen, which is critical for bone strength and structure. Infants with Type 2 OI typically have severely underdeveloped bones that are extremely fragile, resulting in a high incidence of fractures even before birth as well as significant other complications.

Comparatively, the other types of OI, such as Type 1, Type 3, and Type 4, are associated with varying degrees of bone fragility but do not carry the same lethality risk in infancy as Type 2 does. Type 1 is generally the mildest form, while Type 3 is more severe but often allows for survival into childhood and beyond with significant medical management. Type 4 also presents with variable severity, but affected individuals can live into adulthood. Thus, the high mortality associated with Type 2 due to the extreme fragility of the