Lexic.us

Definition of Rickets

1. Noun. Childhood disease caused by deficiency of vitamin D and sunlight associated with impaired metabolism of calcium and phosphorus.

Definition of Rickets

1. n. pl. A disease which affects children, and which is characterized by a bulky head, crooked spine and limbs, depressed ribs, enlarged and spongy articular epiphyses, tumid abdomen, and short stature, together with clear and often premature mental faculties. The essential cause of the disease appears to be the nondeposition of earthy salts in the osteoid tissues. Children afflicted with this malady stand and walk unsteadily. Called also rachitis.

Definition of Rickets

1. a disease resulting from vitamin D deficiency [n]

Medical Definition of Rickets

1. A condition caused by deficiency of vitamin D, especially in infancy and childhood, with disturbance of normal ossification. The disease is marked by bending and distortion of the bones under muscular action, by the formation of nodular enlargements on the ends and sides of the bones, by delayed closure of the fontanelles, pain in the muscles and sweating of the head. Vitamin D and sunlight together with an adequate diet are curative, provided that the parathyroid glands are functioning properly. Origin: Gr. Rhachitis = a spinal complaint This entry appears with permission from the Dictionary of Cell and Molecular Biology (11 Mar 2008)

Lexicographical Neighbors of Rickets

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