Long-term Prospects Approximately half of all skeletal dysplasia fetuses are stillborn or die during the first six weeks of life. However, not all children with dysplasia have serious medical issues. Many of these youngsters are capable of leading regular lives. They may experience some difficulties due to reduced muscle strength and bone deformities, but they can be treated successfully if identified early. The quality of life for people with skeletal dysplasias is greatly influenced by the severity of their disease. People who are born with severe disorders may be unable to walk or eat without assistance. Those with less severe cases may be able to work in jobs that don't require much physical activity. In any case, all patients need adequate nutrition and appropriate medical care. Skeletal dysplasias are caused by defects in certain genes that play important roles in cell division and growth. The body's natural defense system uses antibodies to fight off bacteria and viruses that cause illness. For people with skeletal dysplasias, this defense system is defective, which makes them more susceptible to infection. Some of the most common infections associated with skeletal dysplasias include pneumonia, urinary tract infections (UTIs), and streptococcal throat infections. Patients with skeletal dysplasias should avoid people who are sick with colds or flu because they cannot fight these infections well enough to keep themselves healthy.