ARRT Patient Care Practice Exam

Which condition is NOT associated with a lack of normal bone calcification?

1. Rickets

2. Osteomalacia

3. Osteoarthritis

4. All of the above

The correct answer is: Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is primarily a degenerative joint disease characterized by the breakdown of cartilage and changes in the underlying bone. It does not typically involve a lack of normal bone calcification. Instead, osteoarthritis is associated with the formation of bone spurs and changes in bone structure due to mechanical stress on joints. In contrast, rickets and osteomalacia are directly related to insufficient mineralization of bones. Rickets occurs in children and is typically caused by a deficiency of vitamin D, calcium, or phosphate, leading to soft and weakened bones. Osteomalacia, the adult form of this condition, results from similar deficiencies, causing bone pain and increased risk of fractures due to inadequate bone mineralization. Thus, the presence of these conditions is indicative of a deficiency in proper bone calcification, setting them apart from osteoarthritis.