Vitamin D deficiency in adults results in Osteomalacia, which presents as a poorly mineralized skeletal matrix.

Does vitamin D deficiency cause rickets in adults?

Osteomalacia, which presents as a poorly mineralized skeletal matrix.

This can further result in osteomalacia (soft bones) in adults and rickets in children. Osteomalacia and osteoporosis put you at an increased risk for bone fractures. Rickets is the same as osteomalacia, but it only affects children. Since a child's bones are still growing, demineralization causes bowed or bent bones.

Vitamin D deficiency in adults does not cause "rickets" in the traditional sense that it does in children. In children, a severe deficiency of vitamin D leads to rickets, which is characterized by soft, weak bones that can become deformed.

In adults, prolonged deficiency of vitamin D can lead to a condition called osteomalacia. Osteomalacia is often considered the adult equivalent of rickets. It is characterized by softening of the bones, which can lead to bone pain, muscle weakness, and an increased risk of fractures. The symptoms and signs of osteomalacia can be subtle, and the condition can be misdiagnosed or go unrecognized for a long time.

The cause of osteomalacia is a failure of the bone to mineralize properly. Vitamin D plays a critical role in calcium and phosphate metabolism, which are vital for bone mineralization. Therefore, a deficiency in vitamin D can lead to inadequate mineralization of the bone matrix, resulting in osteomalacia.

However, it's worth noting that while vitamin D deficiency is a common cause of osteomalacia, there are other potential causes as well, such as certain medications, malabsorption syndromes, and chronic kidney diseases. If someone suspects they have a vitamin D deficiency or osteomalacia, it is essential to see a healthcare provider for an evaluation and appropriate treatment.