Engelmann's disease appears to be a familial and probably hereditary systemic condition, in which most of the manifestations can be attributed to a disorder in the osseous and muscular systems. At present the nature of the pathological process is obscure. The manifestations may present soon after birth or become apparent later in life. There is evidence that it is progressive but it may become arrested in some patients.

In order that this very incomplete state of knowledge may be improved it will be necessary to observe patients and their relatives throughout their lifetime.