Osteomalacia - Detailed

Bone softening due to defective bone mineralization.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board

Last updated: June 10, 2026

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Endokrinoloji department. Book Appointment →

What is Osteomalacia - Detailed?

Osteomalacia is the equivalent in adults of rickets in children: bone matrix (osteoid) increases but mineralization is defective; the most common cause is severe vitamin D deficiency (25-OH vitamin D <10-15 ng/mL).

Other causes include phosphate disorders (X-linked hypophosphatemic rickets, oncogenic osteomalacia, Fanconi syndrome), chronic kidney disease, malabsorption (celiac, gastric bypass, pancreatic insufficiency), and drugs (anticonvulsants, antacids).

Diagnosis is suggested by elevated alkaline phosphatase, low calcium-phosphorus, very low 25-OH vitamin D, elevated parathyroid hormone, and Looser zones (pseudofractures). Bone biopsy may be definitive in atypical cases.

Symptoms

Diffuse bone pain (especially low back, hips, ribs)

Proximal muscle weakness

Waddling gait

Difficulty climbing stairs

Pathologic fractures

Hypocalcemic muscle spasms

Bone tenderness on palpation

Risk Factors

Inadequate sun exposure

Dark skin pigmentation

Vegan diet

Malabsorption diseases

Bariatric surgery

Chronic kidney disease

Anticonvulsant use

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

Diffuse bone pain
Difficulty rising from the floor
Recurrent fractures
Difficulty walking
Weight-bearing bone pain

Treatment Methods

25-OH vitamin D, calcium, phosphorus, ALP, PTH

Loading dose vitamin D 50,000 IU/week × 6-8 weeks

Maintenance vitamin D 1,000-2,000 IU/day

Calcium supplementation 1,000-1,500 mg/day

Treatment of underlying disease

Phosphate replacement (selected patients)

Annual DEXA and lab follow-up

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Endokrinoloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Endokrinoloji Department

Let us help you

You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.