 | | | | Medical Health Encyclopedia | |
Osteomalacia
Definition:
Osteomalacia involves softening of the bones caused by a deficiency of vitamin D or problems with the metabolism of this vitamin. Causes, incidence, and risk factors:
Text Continues Below
There are numerous causes of osteomalacia. In children, the condition is called rickets and is usually caused by a deficiency of vitamin D. Conditions that may lead to osteomalacia include: - Inadequate dietary intake of vitamin D
- Inadequate exposure to sunlight (ultraviolet radiation), which produces vitamin D in the body
- Malabsorption of vitamin D by the intestines
Other conditions that may cause osteomalacia include: - Hereditary or acquired disorders of vitamin D metabolism
- Kidney failure and acidosis
- Phosphate depletion associated with low dietary intake of phosphates
- Kidney disease or cancer (rare)
- Side effects of medications used to treat seizures
Use of very strong sunscreen, limited exposure of the body to sunlight, short days of sunlight, and smog are factors that decrease formation of vitamin D within the body. Risk factors for osteomalacia are related to the causes. In the elderly, there is an increased risk among people who tend to remain indoors and those who avoid milk because of lactose intolerance.
A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org).
The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2004 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited. | |
| 
.gif)
