Know FOP

Know FOP - Fibrodysplasia Ossificans Progressiva

FOP - Fibrodysspasia Ossificans Progressiva is a rare musculoskeletal condition where, after birth and progressively through life, muscles and tendons are gradually transformed into bone (a process called ossification). This creates a second “skeleton” of extra bone, which makes movement impossible.

FOP can significantly impair respiratory function. It’s crucial for individuals with FOP to prevent so tissue injuries and muscle damage. They are prone to falls resulting in head, neck, and back injuries and have a higher risk of fractures.

FOP Trust India is dedicated to raising awareness, supporting families with mobility aids, home comforts, and home-based healthcare consultations. Their key mission is to connect scientists, research organizations, and pharmaceutical companies to find a cure for this severe disorder.

Clinical Characteristics of FOP

  • Malformation of the great toes is visible at birth.
  • Flare-ups that worsen the condition occur spontaneously or following viral illnesses or physical trauma to the muscle such as: intramuscular childhood immunizations, falls, surgery, biopsy.
  • Rogue bone growth progressively restricts movement.
  • Often misdiagnosed as cancer
  • The exact rate of progression is unpredictable, although there appears to be a pattern to the progression (e.g., upper body in childhood and lower body in adolescence)
  • Rare, progressive genetic disorder that has an estimated prevalence of 0.88 per 1 million, or approximately a prevalence of 1 in 1 million.
  • No ethnic, racial, or gender patterns.
  • This video explains FOP https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3StfoMjNK-s&t=1s