Which of the following best describes osteomalacia?

• A. A condition characterized by the softening of bones due to vitamin D deficiency in adults
• B. A genetic disorder resulting in brittle bones
• C. An autoimmune disease causing inflammation of the joints
• D. A type of bone cancer commonly found in children

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the term 'osteomalacia' by breaking it down: 'osteo-' refers to bones, and '-malacia' refers to softening. This indicates the condition involves the softening of bones.
2. Recall the primary cause of osteomalacia: It is often linked to a deficiency in vitamin D, which is essential for calcium absorption and bone mineralization.
3. Differentiate osteomalacia from other conditions mentioned in the options: A genetic disorder resulting in brittle bones refers to osteogenesis imperfecta, not osteomalacia. An autoimmune disease causing joint inflammation refers to rheumatoid arthritis, and bone cancer in children is typically osteosarcoma.
4. Focus on the population affected: Osteomalacia occurs in adults, whereas a similar condition in children is called rickets.
5. Conclude that the best description of osteomalacia is 'A condition characterized by the softening of bones due to vitamin D deficiency in adults,' as it aligns with the definition and cause of the condition.