Osteomalacia

Answer Explanation:

• The correct answer is “Proximal myopathy is a feature”. This is because osteomalacia is a condition that softens the bones, often due to a deficiency of vitamin D, leading to muscle weakness, particularly in the proximal muscles such as the hip and shoulder muscles.

Incorrect Options Explanation:

• “It predisposes to malignant bone tumours” – This is incorrect. Osteomalacia does not increase the risk of malignant bone tumours.
• “Radiographs of affected areas may reveal osteophytes” – This is incorrect. Osteophytes are bony outgrowths usually seen in osteoarthritis, not osteomalacia.
• “Treatment should include avoiding sunlight exposure” – This is incorrect. Sunlight exposure is actually beneficial in osteomalacia as it helps the body produce vitamin D.
• “Alkaline phosphatase levels are reduced” – This is incorrect. In osteomalacia, alkaline phosphatase levels are typically elevated due to increased bone turnover.

Osteomalacia Overview:

Etiology:

• Most commonly caused by vitamin D deficiency.
• Other causes include malabsorption syndromes, renal disease, and certain medications.

Clinical Features:

• Proximal muscle weakness.
• Bone pain and tenderness.
• Increased risk of fractures.

Investigations:

• Elevated alkaline phosphatase.
• Low serum calcium and phosphate.
• Low 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels.

Treatment:

• Supplementation with vitamin D and calcium.
• Addressing the underlying cause.