What condition are rickets associated with?

Rickets is primarily associated with bone disease resulting from a deficiency of vitamin D, calcium, or phosphate. This condition leads to softening and weakening of bones in children, resulting in skeletal deformities and growth disturbances. Vitamin D plays a crucial role in calcium absorption in the gut and maintaining adequate serum calcium and phosphate levels for normal bone mineralization.

When there is insufficient vitamin D, it can result in inadequate mineralization of the bone matrix in children, which manifests as rickets. The bones become fragile and may deform under pressure, leading to characteristic changes such as bowed legs or swelling at the joints. Ensuring adequate vitamin D levels through sunlight exposure, diet, or supplementation is critical for preventing rickets and promoting healthy bone development in children.