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Osteomalacia in a night nurse.
Clinical Orthopaedics and Related Research
|April 1, 1986
Summary
This case study highlights osteomalacia in a nurse due to vitamin D deficiency. Treatment with vitamin D and calcium resolved her bone pain and pseudofractures.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Nutritional Science
- Bone Metabolism
Background:
- Osteomalacia, a condition of soft bones, can result from vitamin D deficiency.
- Risk factors include inadequate dietary intake, limited sun exposure, and certain medications.
- Night shift work may exacerbate vitamin D deficiency due to reduced sun exposure.
Observation:
- A 41-year-old nurse presented with severe bone pain, pseudofractures, and gait disturbance.
- She had a history of avoiding sunlight and dairy products, and regular barbiturate use.
- Laboratory tests revealed low serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25-OH-D) levels.
Findings:
- Bone biopsy confirmed osteomalacia.
- Multifactorial causes identified: insufficient vitamin D intake, lack of sunlight, and phenobarbital use.
- Symptoms resolved completely following vitamin D and calcium supplementation.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of investigating diet, medication, and lifestyle in patients with generalized bone pain.
- While classical vitamin D deficiency is rare, it remains a critical consideration.
- Early diagnosis and treatment of osteomalacia are essential for symptom resolution and preventing complications.