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.
