softening of bones

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softening

(sof'en-ing)

The process of becoming soft. Synonym: malacia

softening of bones

Osteomalacia.

softening of brain

See: encephalomalacia

white softening

The stage of softening of tissue in which the affected area has become white and anemic.

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References in periodicals archive ?

Scientists have known for the past century that lack of vitamin D causes rickets (childhood skeletal deformities), and now they are linking it with periodontitis (serious gum infection), fibromyalgia (chronic body pain), osteomalacia (softening of bones), osteoporosis and muscle weakness, reports Holick.

Vitamin D-fense against disease: growing evidence shows Disease-fighting role for D

The researchers say that suboptimal levels of vitamin D may lead to increased risk of osteoporosis and hip fracture and, in severe cases, to the development of rickets, a softening of bones in children that can lead to skeletal fractures and deformity.

Global Vitamin D deficiency rates rise highest in South Asia

This softening of bones can be so mild it's subclinical--which means you can't identify it yet.