OSTEOMALACHIA Meaning and
Definition
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Osteomalachia is a medical term that refers to a condition characterized by the softening and weakening of bones in adults. It is primarily caused by a deficiency in vitamin D and, to a lesser extent, calcium and phosphorus. This condition is more commonly known as adult rickets.
Vitamin D plays a crucial role in the body's ability to absorb and utilize dietary calcium and phosphorus, which are essential minerals for bone health. When there is a deficiency of vitamin D, the body is unable to properly mineralize and strengthen its bones, leading to softening and weakening.
Symptoms of osteomalachia may include bone pain, muscle weakness, and an increased risk of fractures. Individuals with this condition may also experience difficulty walking, muscle cramps, and dental problems.
The primary treatment for osteomalachia involves addressing the underlying vitamin D deficiency. This is typically done through vitamin D supplementation and increasing sunlight exposure, as sunlight triggers the body's natural production of vitamin D. Additionally, dietary changes to ensure adequate intake of calcium and phosphorus may be recommended.
If left untreated, osteomalachia can lead to progressive bone loss and deformities, impacting an individual's overall mobility and quality of life. Therefore, it is important to diagnose and treat this condition promptly to prevent further complications.
Common Misspellings for OSTEOMALACHIA
- osteomalacia
- osteomelacia
- isteomalachia
- ksteomalachia
- lsteomalachia
- psteomalachia
- 0steomalachia
- 9steomalachia
- oateomalachia
- ozteomalachia
- oxteomalachia
- odteomalachia
- oeteomalachia
- owteomalachia
- osreomalachia
- osfeomalachia
- osgeomalachia
- osyeomalachia
- os6eomalachia
- os5eomalachia
Etymology of OSTEOMALACHIA
The word "osteomalachia" has its roots in Greek. It is derived from two Greek words: "osteon" (ὀστέον) meaning "bone" and "malakia" (μαλακία) meaning "softness" or "weakness". Therefore, "osteomalachia" literally means "soft or weak bones".
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