Rickets is caused by the failure of osteoid calcification in a growing child and is usually due to vitamin D metabolite (cholecalciferol) deficiency, which is formed in the skin after exposure to ultraviolet light. Human milk contains very little vitamin D and thus, breast-fed children are at an increased risk of vitamin D deficiency. In addition, those with darkly pigmented skin or who cover their bodies are also at higher risk. Rickets in Indian children is common due to skin colour, prolonged breast-feeding, and low maternal vitamin D levels.
The disease is diagnosed by x-ray examination of leg bones. A distinct pattern of irregularities, abnormalities, and a coarse appearance can be clearly seen with rickets. A blood test may be done which reveals phosphorus level to be invariably low for age and elevated alkaline phosphatase levels.
Your child’s values are essentially normal; please be guided by your paediatrician’s advice.