rachitisosteomalacia

Rachitisosteomalacia is a medical term that describes a group of bone diseases characterized by impaired bone mineralization. It encompasses both rickets, which affects children, and osteomalacia, which affects adults. These conditions result from a deficiency in vitamin D, calcium, or phosphate, which are essential for building and maintaining strong bones. In rickets, the bones of children fail to mineralize properly, leading to soft and weak bones that can become deformed. In osteomalacia, the adult skeleton is affected, resulting in bone pain, muscle weakness, and an increased risk of fractures. Common causes include insufficient dietary intake of vitamin D or calcium, poor absorption of these nutrients in the intestines, and certain kidney or liver diseases that interfere with vitamin D metabolism. Sunlight exposure is a natural source of vitamin D, so lack of sun exposure can also contribute. Symptoms can vary but often include bone pain, tenderness, and fractures. Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination, blood tests to check vitamin D, calcium, and phosphate levels, and bone imaging such as X-rays or bone density scans. Treatment focuses on correcting the underlying deficiency through supplementation of vitamin D, calcium, and phosphate, as well as addressing any contributing medical conditions.