What is a common finding associated with rickets in infants?

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A common finding associated with rickets in infants is the prominence of the costochondral joints. Rickets is a condition that results from a deficiency of vitamin D, calcium, or phosphate, leading to impaired mineralization of the bone. One of the characteristic physical findings in infants with rickets is a "rachitic rosary," which refers to the swelling at the costochondral junctions where the ribs meet the cartilage. This prominence occurs due to the expansion of the costochondral joints from osteomalacia, which is the softening of the bone structure.

Costochondral joint prominence often reflects the underlying metabolic bone disease affecting the structural integrity of the ribs and can contribute to a broader assessment of the infant's nutritional status and overall health. Monitoring the presence of these joint changes is important for diagnosing rickets early and implementing appropriate dietary modifications or supplementation.

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