Osteomalacia

Definition

Osteomalacia is a condition characterized by the softening of the bones due to inadequate bone mineralization, often resulting from a deficiency in vitamin D, calcium, or phosphate. This leads to weakened bones, increasing the risk of fractures and deformities.

Related terms

Vitamin D deficiency: A condition that occurs when an individual doesn't have sufficient vitamin D, which is crucial for maintaining bone health and aiding in calcium absorption.

Bone mineral density (BMD): A measurement that determines the amount of minerals (such as calcium) in your bones, indicating their strength and density.

Homeostasis:

The body's ability to maintain stable internal conditions (including mineral balance) necessary for survival amidst external changes