Understanding FOP
FOP is a progressive and debilitating genetic disorder characterized by heterotopic ossification (HO). The defining sign present at birth is a malformation of the great toes. In early childhood, children develop soft tissue swellings that transform into bone. Development of such lesions is exacerbated by trauma, and surgical intervention leads to dramatic and explosive new bone growth. The median survival of FOP patients is approximately 45 years, and death often results from complications of thoracic insufficiency syndrome.
FOP is an extremely rare condition affecting 1 in 2,000,000 people. In addition, overactivity of the BMP-2 receptor causes heterotopic ossification as a result of trauma. Trauma induced HO outside of FOP can be seen in soldiers who afterseverely debilitating complication that is increasing significantly in prevalence. It is estimated that 64% of soldiers with blast injuries to the extremities develop HO, compromising functional mobility and prosthesis use.
FOP is an extremely rare condition affecting 1 in 2,000,000 people. In addition, overactivity of the BMP-2 receptor causes heterotopic ossification as a result of trauma. Trauma induced HO outside of FOP can be seen in soldiers who afterseverely debilitating complication that is increasing significantly in prevalence. It is estimated that 64% of soldiers with blast injuries to the extremities develop HO, compromising functional mobility and prosthesis use.
