Diagnosis of Rickets

A physical exam is required for a diagnosis of rickets where the bones are checked for tenderness or pain. Additionally, the complete medical and nutritional history of the patient is investigated in case rickets is suspected. Other tests for rickets include:

Bone x-rays to check for the following characteristics – bowing of the femur bones, abnormally shaped metaphysis, bones that are not dense, a flaring of the rib, multiple fractures.
Arterial blood gas test
Blood test to check for serum calcium
Serum alkaline phosphatase and serum phosphorus tests
Tests to check for ALP (alkaline phosphatase) isoenzyme, calcium levels, PTH, and urine calcium
Electrolyte level tests
Kidney function tests
In rare cases, a bone biopsy may be performed

Signs & Symptoms

Prognosis