A Case Report of Rickets Due to Severe Nutritional Deficiencies

Abstract

A 19-month-old boy presented to the general pediatric clinic with delayed development and multiple nutritional deficiencies, after being exclusively breastfed up to the age of nine months without vitamin D supplementation. Upon examination, imaging studies, and lab tests, the patient was diagnosed with nutritional rickets. The management included supplementation of cholecalciferol, ferrous sulfate, calcium carbonate, and multivitamin drops to support his diet, and was encouraged to follow a healthy balanced diet. Upon follow-up at the age of 20 months, the patient showed slight improvement and was able to walk, while at 22 months, the patient was developmentally up to age, and had a good appetite with a slight increase in weight. Despite the high incidence of nutritional deficiencies, there is still a lack of awareness and late presentations of such cases, which can lead to complications if not detected early. This case demonstrates the importance of prevention of similar cases by early education about adequate nutrition to the patients and caregivers and regular follow-ups with the general practitioner for early detection and early supplementation as required.

Nutritional Rickets During the COVID-19 Pandemic in Rivers State, Nigeria: A Case Series Highlighting Challenges in Management in A Resource-Constrained Setting

“…10 With the advent of the pandemic, several reports from both developing and developed countries around the world indicate a significant increase in the prevalence of nutritional rickets. [11][12][13][14] This case series on nutritional rickets in Nigerian Children in Port Harcourt City, Rivers State is aimed at highlighting a rising prevalence of nutritional rickets possibly due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and worsening nutritional status due to rising inflation in this environment.…”