Rickets (childhood bone disease)

Description A disorder of child...

Description

A disorder of children caused by a low level of vitamin D, calcium, and/or phosphate in the body. These minerals and vitamins are necessary for normal bone growth and development. Deficiency of these elements causes weakening, deformity and fractures of the bones. The most common cause of these low levels is malnutrition and a poor diet. For that reason, rickets is much more common in developing nations than in developed nations. Metabolic problems causing decreased absorption or utilization of calcium, vitamin D and/or phosphorous may also cause the disorder.

Symptoms

Bone tenderness in arms, legs, pelvis and spine. Dental deformities, delay in teeth formation, and increased cavities. Delayed growth, short stature, increased bone fractures, bony deformities, and muscle cramps.

Tests

Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment

Workup:
A history and physical exam will be done. The healthcare provider will identify bone tenderness and deformities such as bowing of the legs. Other tests may be helpful in diagnosing rickets and ruling out other causes for the symptoms.

Tests:
Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), X-ray

Other Specific Tests: Alkaline phosphatase, ABG, Phosphate levels, Bone biopsy

Specialists:
Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, Family Practice

Treatment

Therapy is aimed at reversing the cause of the vitamin and mineral deficiencies and relieving the symptoms. Replacing the calcium, phosphorous, and vitamin D can reverse the process and treat many of the symptoms. Increasing exposure to sunshine and eating more fish, liver, and milk can replace the missing vitamin D and calcium. At times supplements will be needed. Skeletal deformities may be treated with braces and in severe cases surgery will be required. Dental abnormalities may need treatment as well,