Overview of Osteopetroses

(Marble Bones)

ByFrank Pessler, MD, PhD, Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research
Reviewed/Revised Nov 2022
View Patient Education

Osteopetroses are familial disorders characterized by increased bone density and skeletal modeling abnormalities.

    Osteopetroses can be categorized based on whether sclerosis or defective skeletal modeling predominates. There are a number of different types, including

    They are all familial but have different inheritance patterns. Some types are comparatively benign; others are progressive and fatal.

    Bony overgrowth sometimes severely distorts the face. Malocclusion of the teeth may require specialized orthodontic measures.

    Plain x-rays typically are diagnostic.

    Surgical decompression may be required to relieve elevated intracranial pressure or to release a trapped facial or auditory nerve.

    quizzes_lightbulb_red
    Test your KnowledgeTake a Quiz!
    Download the free Merck Manual App iOS ANDROID
    Download the free Merck Manual App iOS ANDROID
    Download the free Merck Manual App iOS ANDROID