What it means
Without enough vitamin D (or calcium or phosphate), a child's bones cannot harden properly as they grow. The bones may bend, causing bowed legs, a thickened wrist and ankle, delayed growth and late teeth. Risk factors include little sun, dark skin, exclusive breastfeeding without a vitamin D supplement, and conditions that block absorption. In adults the same problem is called osteomalacia.
For the nurse
Teach that breastfed babies need a vitamin D supplement (usually 400 international units a day) from soon after birth. Good sources include fortified milk, fish and egg yolks, and some time in the sun.
At a glance
| Spanish | raquitismo |
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Related terms
calcium
A mineral that builds bones and teeth and that nerves, muscles, the heart and blood clotting need to work.
osteoporosis
A condition in which bones lose density and become thin, weak and easy to break.
deformity
A body part that is out of its normal shape or position.