All::Rheumatology::Diseases::Osteomalacia
Intro
What is the term preferred for softening of the bones due to low vitamin D levels in adults?
Osteomalacia.
What term is used when softening of the bones due to low vitamin D levels occurs in growing children?
Rickets.
Name some causes of osteomalacia.
Vitamin D deficiency (malabsorption, lack of sunlight, diet), chronic kidney disease, drug-induced (e.g., anticonvulsants), inherited (hypophosphatemic rickets), liver disease (e.g., cirrhosis), coeliac disease.
What are the features of osteomalacia?
Bone pain, bone/muscle tenderness, fractures (especially femoral neck), proximal myopathy leading to a waddling gait.
What blood tests may show abnormalities in osteomalacia?
Low vitamin D levels, low calcium, phosphate (in around 30%), raised alkaline phosphatase (in 95-100% of patients).
What may be seen on an x-ray in osteomalacia?
Translucent bands (Looser's zones or pseudofractures).
What is the treatment for osteomalacia?
Vitamin D supplementation (loading dose initially) and calcium supplementation if dietary calcium is inadequate.