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Vitamin D Deficiency in Children

Diagnosis and management of pediatric hypovitaminosis D

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

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 Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları department. Book Appointment →

What is Vitamin D Deficiency in Children?

Vitamin D regulates calcium and phosphate homeostasis essential for bone growth and mineralization in children.

Deficiency is defined as serum 25(OH)D below 20 ng/mL (50 nmol/L); insufficiency is 20-30 ng/mL.

Severe deficiency causes rickets in growing children, with bone deformities, hypocalcemia, and growth retardation.

Diagnosis includes 25(OH)D level, serum calcium, phosphate, alkaline phosphatase, parathyroid hormone, and X-rays of wrists and knees in symptomatic cases.

Symptoms

Bowed legs (genu varum) in toddlers learning to walk
Knock-knees (genu valgum) in older children
Delayed walking and motor milestones
Bone pain, muscle weakness, and tetany or seizures from hypocalcemia
Frontal bossing, craniotabes, and rachitic rosary on the chest
Growth retardation and short stature

Risk Factors

Exclusive breastfeeding without vitamin D supplementation
Limited sun exposure (covered clothing, urban living, northern latitudes)
Dark skin pigmentation reducing cutaneous synthesis
Maternal vitamin D deficiency during pregnancy
Malabsorption (cystic fibrosis, celiac disease)
Chronic kidney or liver disease impairing vitamin D activation

When to See a Doctor?

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

  • Bowed legs or knock-knees beyond physiological age
  • Delayed walking or motor development
  • Recurrent fractures with minimal trauma
  • Bone pain or muscle weakness in children
  • Seizures or tetany from suspected hypocalcemia
  • Failure to thrive or short stature

Treatment Methods

01
Vitamin D3 supplementation 400 IU daily for infants under 12 months as prevention
02
Treatment of deficiency: 2000-5000 IU daily for 6-12 weeks, then maintenance 600-1000 IU daily
03
Single high-dose stoss therapy (50,000-300,000 IU) in selected cases for non-adherent patients
04
Calcium supplementation if dietary intake is insufficient
05
Treatment of underlying conditions (malabsorption, renal disease)
06
Sunlight exposure of face and arms for 15-30 minutes several times weekly

Which Department to Visit?

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

Learn About Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları Department

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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.