Rachitic Rosary

Rickets, or rickets, is a disease that often occurs in children under two years of age. It is associated with insufficient intake of vitamin D, which plays an important role in the formation and strengthening of bones. One of the signs of rickets is rachitic “rosary” - thickening of the costal cartilages at the point of their connection with the bony parts of the ribs.

Costal cartilages are flexible connective tissues that connect the ribs to the sternum. Normally, they are thin strips that allow the chest to expand and contract with breathing. However, with rickets, when the body does not get enough vitamin D, the costal cartilages begin to grow abnormally and thicken.

Rachitic rosaries are usually observed on the ribs in the lower chest and on the upper ribs of the abdomen. They look like small thickenings that can be felt upon palpation. In children with rickets, the rosary may be sore and tender to the touch.

Rachitic “rosary beads” are one of the most characteristic signs of rickets, but they are not the only one. Other signs of rickets include bowed legs, stunted growth, muscle weakness, delayed teeth, and others. If you notice signs of rickets in your child, be sure to consult a doctor.

Treatment for rickets involves taking extra doses of vitamin D, as well as changing your diet and increasing physical activity. In most cases, rickets can be successfully treated, but it is important to start treatment as early as possible to avoid serious consequences for the child's health.

Thus, rachitic “rosary beads” are one of the signs of rickets, a disease that often occurs in children under two years of age. If you notice signs of rickets in your child, consult a doctor for qualified medical care.