How Do You Spell RACHITIC ROSARY?

1. A rachitic rosary refers to a distinctive physical manifestation observed in individuals suffering from rickets, a medical condition primarily caused by vitamin D deficiency. The term "rachitic" originates from the word "rachitis," which denotes the disease itself, while "rosary" represents the specific appearance of the bones.

   Typically observed in infants, children, and occasionally in adults, a rachitic rosary refers to the formation of swollen and prominent nodules or knobs located at the junction of the rib bones and costal cartilages. This particular anatomical presentation creates the visual resemblance to a string of beads, hence the term "rosary."

   The rachitic rosary occurs due to impaired bone development caused by a lack of vitamin D, which leads to insufficient calcium and phosphorus absorption in the bones, resulting in softening and deformities. The nodular appearance is a consequence of the weakened, fragile bones that fail to withstand the tension exerted by the intercostal muscles, causing the rib ends to become protuberant with a beaded pattern.

   Clinically, this condition is characterized by pain, tenderness, and swelling around the affected area, often accompanied by skeletal deformities such as bowing of the legs and knock-knees. If left untreated, rickets can lead to severe consequences like stunted growth, skeletal abnormalities, and an increased susceptibility to fractures.

   Therefore, the identification of a rachitic rosary is crucial in diagnosing rickets and prompting appropriate measures to correct the underlying vitamin D deficiency and foster healthy bone development.

2. A row of beading at the junction of the ribs with their cartilages, often seen in rachitic children.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

Common Misspellings for RACHITIC ROSARY

The term "rachitic rosary" combines two words: "rachitic" and "rosary".

1. "Rachitic" is derived from the medical condition called "rickets". Rickets is a disease caused by a deficiency of vitamin D, calcium, or phosphate, resulting in weak and soft bones. This condition primarily affects children, leading to poor growth, deformities in the skeletal system, and bowing of the legs. The word "rachitic" is an adjective form describing the characteristics or symptoms of rickets.

2. "Rosary" refers to the string of beads used in certain religious practices, particularly in Catholicism. The word "rosary" originates from the Latin word "rosarium", meaning "rose garden". It is called so because the beads resemble individual roses in a garden.