Fetal rickets refers to a condition of weakened bones in a developing fetus caused by a lack of vitamin D or calcium. The spelling of fetal rickets is pronounced /ˈfiː.tal ˈrɪk.ɪts/, with emphasis on the first syllable of both words. The phonetic transcription of the word reflects the correct pronunciation, which can be broken down into two parts: 'fetal' /ˈfiː.tal/ and 'rickets' /ˈrɪk.ɪts/ with a short 'i' sound in the second syllable. Fetal rickets is generally treatable with appropriate supplements and better nutrition during pregnancy.
Fetal rickets is a medical condition characterized by the abnormal development of bones in the fetus due to a lack of appropriate levels of vitamin D, calcium, and phosphate during pregnancy. It occurs when the developing baby does not receive sufficient nutrients necessary for the proper formation and growth of their bones.
Rickets is a condition that typically affects children, but when it occurs in the fetus, it is referred to as fetal rickets. The condition results from the inadequate levels of vitamin D, which is crucial for the absorption and regulation of calcium and phosphate in the body. Calcium and phosphate are essential for the proper mineralization and strength of bones.
Fetal rickets can result from various factors, including maternal vitamin D deficiency, malabsorption issues, certain medications, or underlying medical conditions affecting the infant's ability to absorb nutrients from the mother. Additionally, genetic factors can also play a role in the development of fetal rickets.
The symptoms of fetal rickets may include skeletal abnormalities, such as bowed legs, enlarged joints, soft skull bones, and a compressed chest. In severe cases, it can lead to fractures during birth or evident skeletal deformities in the newborn.
Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial in managing fetal rickets. Treatment typically involves supplementation with vitamin D, calcium, and phosphate to support optimal bone development. In some cases, treating the underlying cause of the deficiency, such as maternal vitamin D deficiency, may also be necessary.
In conclusion, fetal rickets is a condition of abnormal bone development during fetal development due to insufficient levels of vitamin D, calcium, and phosphate. Prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment can help improve the outcome for affected infants.
Achondroplasia.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "fetal rickets" consists of two components: "fetal" and "rickets".
1. Fetal: The term "fetal" pertains to the fetus, which refers to an unborn or developing mammal, particularly humans, during the stage of gestation before birth. The word is derived from the Latin word "fetus", meaning "offspring" or "bringing forth".
2. Rickets: "Rickets" is a condition that affects the bones of children due to a deficiency of vitamin D, calcium, or phosphate. It leads to weak, soft, and brittle bones. The term "rickets" comes from the Middle English word "riket", which itself was derived from the Old English "ryccett", meaning "bodily deformity".