What is paper skin and glass bones?

Paper skin and glass bones are colloquial terms used to describe two rare genetic disorders known as Ehlers-Danlos syndrome and osteogenesis imperfecta respectively.

Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS) affects the connective tissues of the body, which include the skin, tendons, ligaments, and tissues that hold organs in place. People with EDS have extremely fragile skin that can tear or bruise easily, similar to that of paper. Other symptoms may include joint hypermobility, easy bruising, and chronic pain.

Osteogenesis imperfecta (OI), also known as brittle bone disease, is a genetic disorder that causes bones to be extremely fragile and easily broken, like glass. People with OI may suffer from many fractures throughout their lifetime because of this brittle state. OI may also lead to dental problems, hearing loss, and bone deformities.

Both conditions are genetic, which means that it can be passed down from parent to child. There is no cure for either Ehlers-Danlos syndrome or Osteogenesis imperfecta, but treatments can help manage the condition and improve quality of life.