Journal of Rawalpindi Medical College | 2026
Authors: Minhas A.; Iqbal Z.; Tariq M.H.; Sabir M.A.; Qammar B.; Afgan S.
DOI: 10.37939/jrmc.v30i1.3013
Journal: Journal of Rawalpindi Medical College
Year: 2026
Publisher: Rawalpindi Medical University
Document Type: Article
Open Access: All Open Access; Gold Open Access
Cited by: 0
Objective: This study aimed to determine the frequency and clinical profile of vitamin D deficiency rickets in children. Methods: This retrospective descriptive study was conducted at King Edward Medical University from March 2024 to June 2025. We included 265 children aged 6 months to 12 years, diagnosed with vitamin D deficiency rickets based on clinical, biochemical, and radiological findings. Data regarding demographics, socioeconomic status, feeding practices, sunlight exposure, clinical presentation, laboratory parameters, and radiological features were retrieved from medical records. Results: The mean age of affected children was 3.8 ± 2.1 years, with most cases occurring under 5 years of age (75.1%). Males (58.1%) were more frequently affected than females (41.9%). Low socioeconomic status (63%), exclusive breastfeeding without supplementation (55.1%), and inadequate sunlight exposure (69.1%) were significant risk factors. The most common clinical features were bowing of the legs (58.9%), widened wrists (54.3%), growth retardation (50.6%), and delayed motor milestones (42.3%). Hypocalcaemic seizures occurred in 10.9% of patients, predominantly among infants. Biochemical findings showed hypocalcaemia (7.9 ± 1.1 mg/dL), low phosphorus (3.4 ± 0.9 mg/dL), elevated alkaline phosphatase (1082 ± 354 IU/L), and markedly low vitamin D (11.7 ± 4.2 ng/mL). Conclusion: Vitamin D deficiency rickets remains a prevalent paediatric health issue with significant clinical and developmental consequences. The findings of this study highlight the critical role of nutritional insufficiency, inadequate sunlight exposure, and socioeconomic disparities in perpetuating this disease. © 2026.
Epidemiology; Malnutrition; Rickets; Vitamin D Deficiency