Osteomalacia is softening of the bones due to a lack of vitamin D or a problem with the body's ability to break down and use this vitamin.
The softer bones seen in persons with osteomalacia have a normal amount of collagen, which gives the bones its structure, but lack the proper amount of calcium.
There are numerous causes of osteomalacia. In children, the condition is called rickets and is usually caused by low levels of vitamin D.
Other conditions that may lead to osteomalacia include:
Use of very strong sunscreen, limited exposure of the body to sunlight, short days of sunlight, and smog are factors that reduce formation of vitamin D in the body. The elderly and those who avoid drinking milk are at increased risk for osteomalacia.
Other conditions that may cause osteomalacia include:
Symptoms may also occur due to low calcium levels. These include:
Blood tests will be done to check vitamin D, creatinine, calcium, and phosphate levels.
A bone biopsy reveals bone softening.
Bone x-rays and a bone density test can help detect pseudofractures, bone loss, and bone softening.
Other tests may be done to determine if there is a kidney problem or other underlying disorder. These tests include:
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Reviewer Info: Robert Cooper, MD, Endocinology Specialist and Chief of Medicine, Holyoke Medical Center, Assistant Professor of Medicine, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston MA Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.; ADAM Health Illustrated Encyclopedia, 07/15/2008 |