Rickets and osteopenia are two forms of bone disease which occur in children. They may result in an increased susceptibility to fractures or to deformities in bones. They are usually diagnosed by xrays, bone density tests, and some specialized blood testing.

Although one doesn't usually think of the kidneys as being involved in bone problems, nephrologists actually treat many of these disorders. This is because one of the functions of the kidneys is to control the levels of minerals which make up bone (calcium and phosphate) as well as vitamin D. Many children with suspected bone disease are referred to nephrologists. We may diagnose and treat them, sometimes in cooperation with other specialists such as endocrinologists, geneticists, or orthopedic surgeons.