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The Changes in Total Calcium Content of the Bones during the Development of Rickets

Department of Pediatrics, The University of Chicago

The change in the total amounts of calcium in the metatarsal bones of rabbits was studied during the development of rickets. The method employed was to amputate one leg at the beginning of the experimental period and compare the calcium content of the bones of this leg with that of the other, removed after the end of the period. Suitable controls showed that the calcium content of the bones of one leg was very nearly the same as that of the other when the legs were removed at the same time; and that in normal animals the amputation of one leg did not prevent the bones of the other leg from growing and increasing in total calcium content.

In seven out of twelve cases the calcium balance of the bones was found to be markedly negative; the amounts of calcium liberated from the metatarsal bones of one leg ranged in these seven cases from 0.45 to 2.10 mg. calcium per day. In the five remaining cases the balance was practically zero.

Even if the amounts of calcium absorbed from the intestines were considerably decreased, the amounts liberated from the bones would, in many cases, be sufficient to maintain a normal concentration of calcium in the tissue fluids.