Question
A 6-month-old baby has been diagnosed with pectus carinatum and ribs capping symptoms, and there are no deficiencies shown in the trace element tests. The baby is now nine months old. The doctor has indicated the presence of severe calcium deficiency and rickets, and there has been no special treatment provided so far. How should this issue be corrected now?
Answer
Based on the baby’s condition, an initial diagnosis suggests that the baby is entering the active phase of vitamin D deficiency rickets, presenting with “ribs capping” and chicken chest symptoms. Early mild cases of rickets can be completely recovered from with timely treatment, leaving no skeletal deformities. It is recommended to conduct blood biochemistry tests and start daily treatment with vitamin D 125 to 250 micrograms (5,000 to 10,000 international units), continuing for a month before switching to a preventive dose. The preventive dose should be maintained, providing infants with 10 to 20 micrograms (400 to 800 international units) of vitamin D daily, and encouraging outdoor activities.