Osteomalacia is a rare condition caused by vitamin D deficiency that results in the decalcification and softening of bones. It occurs when insufficient vitamin D intake interferes with the normal mineralization of bone. Common causes of vitamin D deficiency include lack of sunlight exposure, gastrointestinal malabsorption issues, extensive burns, chronic diarrhea, pregnancy, kidney disease, and certain drugs. Symptoms include localized bone pain, difficulty walking and raising from chairs, back pain, muscle weakness, weight loss, and spinal deformities that can lead to fractures. Diagnosis involves blood tests showing low calcium, phosphorous, and vitamin D levels as well as increased alkaline phosphatase and x-ray findings. Treatment focuses on vitamin D and

1. OSTEOMALACIA
M. Raghavendran M.Sc (N), Ph.D
Professor

2. Definition
It is a rare condition of adult bone
associated with vitamin D
deficiency resulting in
decalcification and softening of
bone.

3. Cont….
Vitamin D is essential with its complex
action in absorption of calcium from
intestine.
Insufficient vitamin D intake can interfere
with normal mineralization of bone which
results in bone softening.

4. Etiological factor
Lack of exposure to sunlight
GI malabsorption
Extensive burns
Chronic diarrhea
Pregnancy
Kidney disease
Drugs

5. Clinical Manifestations
Localized bone pain
Difficulty in raising from chair and walking
Low back pain
Progressive muscle weakness especially in pelvic
griddle
Weight loss
Deformities of spine
Fractures are common

6. Diagnostic Evaluation
Decreased serum Calcium or Phosphorous
Level Decreased Serum 25 Hydroxy Vitamin D
Increased Serum Alkaline Phosphatase
X Ray

7. Management
Correction of vitamin D, vitamin D3
(cholecalciferol), vitamin D2
(ergocalciferol) can be supplemented
Calcium salts or phosphorous
supplements may be prescribed
Dietary ingestion of eggs, low fat
milk, fish and vegetables are encouraged.
Exposure to sunlight is also valuable.