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Nutritional Rickets — RACP Paediatrics MCQ

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EasyEndocrinologyNutritional RicketsRACP Paediatrics

A 2-year-old with rickets has bowed legs, widened wrists, and a rachitic rosary. Bloods show low calcium, low phosphate, elevated ALP, elevated PTH, and very low 25-hydroxyvitamin D. What is the most common cause in Australia?

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Correct answer: C — Vitamin D deficiency

Nutritional vitamin D deficiency is the most common cause of rickets in Australian children. Risk factors include dark skin pigmentation, inadequate sun exposure, exclusive prolonged breastfeeding without supplementation, and maternal vitamin D deficiency. Treatment includes vitamin D supplementation and calcium.

Reference: RCH Melbourne – 2024 – Clinical Practice Guidelines: Rickets