Additional pediatric resources: GeneralPediatrics.com | PediatricEducation.org | SearchingPediatrics.com
Michael P. D'Alessandro, M.D.
Peer Review Status: Internally Peer Reviewed
Etiology/Pathophysiology:
A metabolic bone disease characterized by a failure of normal
mineralization of growing bone due to Vitamin D deficiency. Causes of
Vitamin D deficiency include nutritional deficits (dietary or lack of
sunlight), malabsorption (pancreatic insufficiency, hepatobiliary
disease, small bowel disease), renal disease (renal glomerular or
tubular disorders),and increased Vitamin D requirement (Vitamin D
resistance, anticonvulsant therapy).
Pathology:
Not applicable
Imaging Findings:
On plain film there is characteristic flaring, cupping, expansion and
irregularity of the metaphysis. This is because bone matrix or
osteoid continues to form but cannot be calcified and the
accumulation of this non calcified osteoid results in the irregular
appearance of the metaphysis. In severe cases periosteal elevation
can be seen. Expansion and fraying of the rib ends is called rachitic
rosary.
DDX:
References:
See References Chapter.
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