What is the term for the softening of bone in children?

The term for the softening of bone in children is "Rickets." This condition is specifically characterized by the weakening of bones in a child's growing body due to a deficiency of vitamin D, calcium, or phosphate. Rickets leads to the softening and deformation of bones, resulting in issues such as bowed legs, thickened wrists and ankles, and breastbone projection. This is particularly relevant during periods of rapid growth, making children especially vulnerable.

While "Osteomalacia" refers to the softening of bones in adults due to similar deficiencies, it is not the correct term for children. Similarly, "Osteoporosis" is a condition that primarily affects older adults, characterized by decreased bone density and an increased risk of fractures, and "Osteogenesis" generally pertains to the formation of bone rather than its softening. Therefore, Rickets is the accurate term to describe the condition in children specifically.