Читать книгу The SAGE Encyclopedia of Stem Cell Research - Группа авторов - Страница 179

Osteomalacia is the softening of bones caused by defective bone mineralization secondary to low levels of vitamin D, phosphorus, or calcium. Hyperparathyroidism causing hypercalcemia is contributory. This disease is the counterpart of rickets specific to adults. Causes can include a low dietary intake of the vitamin and minerals, not enough exposure to sunlight, malabsorption syndromes, and health conditions such as cancer, disorders of metabolism, kidney failure, and liver disease. The clinical features include aches and pains (symmetrical, non-radiating, sensitivity), muscle weakness, less rigid bones, and weight-bearing pathologies. Major biochemical findings include low serum calcium, low urinary calcium, low serum phosphate, and high ALP levels.