Genu valgum and osteoporosis in an area of endemic fluorosis

Abstract

Twenty-four male patients with genuvalgum deformity drawn from an area of endemic fluorosis in Andhra Pradesh, India, were investigated clinically, radiologically, and biochemically. All had evidence of spinal osteosclerosis along with extensive osteoporotic changes in the bones of the extremities. Levels of serum calcium, phosphorus, and alkaline-phosphatase activity were normal. It is concluded that deficiency of several nutrients may modify and aggravate the toxic effects of chronic fluoride intoxication. Hormones may play a part in the causation of the syndrome.