Rickets in children

Add as a preferred source on Google

Rickets is a disease also known by many other names like Osteomalacia, Renal Osteodystrophy, Paediatric Osteomalacia, Vitamin D deficiency and Renal Rickets. This disease involves softening and weakening of bones in children. It occurs when the body demands high levels of calcium and phosphate. Rickets are seen in young children of 6 to 24 months old and is uncommon in newborns.

Causes of rickets:

The main cause of rickets is the deficiency of vitamin D caused in the body during childhood. Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that may be absorbed from the intestines. The absorbed vitamin D is converted into its active form to act as a hormone to regulate levels of calcium and phosphate in the bones.

When the supply of vitamin D from the diet or sun exposure is inadequate, the metabolism of vitamin D becomes abnormal. As a result, tissues are resistant to the action of vitamin D. Insufficient consumption of vitamin D-fortified milk results in insufficient intake of vitamin D supplements to children.

Rickets can be caused by other disorders that affect vitamin D absorption, metabolism, in the body such as:
Kidney problems:

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.