Is a condition that affects children primarily, but can affect adults as well.

When this conditon affects adults it is called Osteomalacia

Occurs with softening of bones that often cause several fractures and deformities.

Can often be seen in some developing countries

Vitamin D deficiency is the most common cause

Causes:

   -    Malnutrition
   -    Famine
   -    Starvation
   -    Inadequated Vitamin D

Symptoms:

   -    Dental problems
   -    Bone pain
   -    Bone tenderness
   -    Bone deformity
   -    Muscle weakness
   -    Growth changes
   -    Soft skull
   -    Low calcium
   -    others

Blood tests for calcium, phosphorus are necessary

X-rays can show affected bones

Biopsy of bone occurs and can diagnose, but is done rarely

Treatment

   -     Increase sunlight exposure
   -     Increase consuption of vitamin D sources
   -     Vitamin D supplements

***  –  often child abuse is unfounded is some situations where the true cause is Rickets