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Vitamin D deficiency rickets. A report on three cases.
D M Kruger1, E D Lyne, M Kleerekoper
1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Henery Ford Hospital, Detroit, MI 48202.
Clinical Orthopaedics and Related Research
|November 1, 1987
Summary
Recent pediatric cases show a rise in vitamin D deficiency rickets among breastfed Black infants. Early diagnosis and vitamin D supplementation offer effective treatment for this classic condition.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Nutritional Science
- Orthopedics
Background:
- Vitamin D deficiency rickets, a classic condition, is resurging in pediatric populations.
- Recent literature highlights this resurgence, yet orthopedic journals have not widely reported it.
Observation:
- Three cases of vitamin D deficiency rickets were observed in children aged 14-17 months.
- All affected children were young Black infants exclusively breastfed for extended durations (9-17 months).
Findings:
- Unlike previously reported cases, the families did not adhere to religious dietary restrictions causing vitamin D deficiency.
- Diagnosis was established, and simple vitamin D supplementation proved effective in treatment.
Implications:
- This study underscores the need for increased awareness of vitamin D deficiency rickets in pediatric and orthopedic practices.
- Highlights the importance of considering prolonged breastfeeding as a risk factor, irrespective of religious dietary practices.
- Emphasizes the efficacy of timely vitamin D supplementation for treating rickets.