Vitamin D deficiency in breast-fed toddlers

The evaluation of genu varum and intoeing in young toddlers is a frequent problem seen by the primacy care physician and the orthopaedic surgeon. This report describes six nonwhite breast-fed toddlers with extreme genu varum. Clinical and radiographic findings were consistent with vitamin D-deficiency rickets. Within 3 to 6 months of the initiation of ergocalciferol treatment, reparative processes were evident on both radiographic and clinical examinations. Laboratory studies also showed underlying correction. With the current emphasis on the benefits of breast-feeding and the limitation of sunlight, this diagnosis must remain on the differential in the evaluation of genu varum.