Metabolic bone disease is a broad term under which fall a number of abnormalities and diseases of bones caused due to various reasons. These disorders are most commonly caused by a deficiency of calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, and vitamin D. The disorders are often reversible once the defect has been treated. The metabolic bone disorders are not the same as genetic bone disorders which are generally caused by a defect in the signaling system or cell type.

Metabolic bone disorders in children
Metabolic bone disorders might include both hereditary and acquired conditions of different etiology which disturb the metabolism of the bone tissue. The most common and dangerous clinical conditions due to this disorder among the children are:

  • Reduced linear growth
  • Bone deformations
  • Non-traumatic fractures leading to bone pain
  • Deterioration of motor development and disability

Conditions considered as metabolic bone disorders

Osteoporosis: Osteoporosis occurs due to factors like atrophy of disuse and gonadal deficiency. Primary and secondary osteoporosis occurs due to nutritional and hereditary vitamin D deficiency.

Rickets: Rickets occurs due to the lack of vitamin D and is mostly found among children. An adequate amount of physical activity can prevent this disease. The symptoms of this disease include delayed growth, bow legs, weakness and pain in the spine, pelvis, and legs.

Osteogenesis imperfecta: Osteogenesis imperfecta can be caused by defective genes. The genes affect the making of collagen, which is a protein that helps the bones to strengthen. When the condition is mild, it causes a few fractures and in severe cases, many.

Paget’s disease of bone: The Paget’s disease of the bone most commonly occurs in the pelvis, skull, spine, and legs. The bones get fragile with time and are prone to any mishap. The symptoms that might show up are bone deformities, broken bones, and pain in the affected area.

Remedy

Osteoporosis: This condition can be prevented by hormone replacement therapy as soon as the disease is diagnosed. There is an active use of bisphosphonates. The treatment preserves the micro-architecture of the bone, thus securing its mechanical integrity. The substantial bone loss causes architectural disintegration which is a huge drawback. The process of replacing bones does not restore the mechanical integrity or protect the bones from fracture.

Rickets: The treatment for rickets includes exposure to sunlight, a diet rich in vitamin D and calcium supplements, medication or possibly surgery. This is one of those metabolic bone disorders that can be treated along with the guidance of a pediatrician.

Osteogenesis imperfecta: The treatments include bone-strengthening medication help to strengthen and build bones along with dietary supplements. Physiotherapy is miraculous at times and helps prevent a few types of orthopedic surgeries such as bone surgery, external fixation, orthognathic surgery, and distraction osteogenesis.

Paget’s disease: The treatment has been revolutionized by the introduction of biphosphates. The medication provided by the doctors can help to decrease the breakdown of bones. The dietary supplements must include a balanced diet to give strength to the bones.

Metabolic bone disorders may thus be concluded as serious diseases that affect lives and must be treated properly.