Orthopaedic Nurses Certification Board (ONCB) Metabolic/Inflammatory/Tumors Practice Exam

Which area is most affected by rickets in a child?

1. Spine and lower extremities

2. Feet and hands

3. Upper extremities

4. Pelvic girdle

The correct answer is: Spine and lower extremities

Rickets is a disorder characterized by the softening and weakening of bones, primarily due to vitamin D deficiency, which leads to impaired calcium and phosphorus metabolism. The areas of the body that are most affected by rickets are those undergoing rapid growth and are subject to weight-bearing activities. The spine and lower extremities are significantly impacted because they bear the weight of the body and are essential for movement and standing. In children with rickets, the lower extremities may develop bowing due to the failure of the bones to mineralize properly, leading to deformities such as genu varum (bowlegs) or genu valgum (knock-knees). Additionally, the spine can also be affected, resulting in abnormalities in bone structure and alignment. While other areas like the feet, hands, upper extremities, or pelvic girdle can also be affected by rickets, the most severe manifestations typically occur in the spine and lower extremities due to their critical role in supporting the body and their growth patterns during childhood.