Typical manifestations of vitamin D deficiency are a skeletal disorder known as rickets in children, which can also cause vitamin D-deficient tetany.
The clinical features of rickets and achondroplasia depend on the age of onset. The classical skeletal lesions of rickets are skeletal deformities, especially in the knees, wrists, and ankles, as well as some changes related to the function of the joints of the costal cartilages, known as “candida”.
If rickets occurs in the first 6 months of life, the infant may develop convulsions and seizures, known as vitamin D deficiency tetany. This is caused by low blood calcium, however, there may be only mild skeletal changes. after 6 months, bone pain and convulsions tend to develop.
In addition, elevated serum alkaline phosphatase levels are often present, and this feature is often utilized clinically to aid in the diagnosis of achondroplasia.
If vitamin D deficiency is suspected in children, it is recommended that they seek prompt medical attention, complete the examination, and cooperate with the doctor if necessary.