Causes of rib flaring in infants and young children

Rib flaring in infants and young children is associated with rickets, which results from a long-term deficiency of vitamin D and may also present with clinical symptoms such as square-shaped head, bowed legs (O-shaped legs), or knock knees (X-shaped legs). In some infants, rib flaring may be caused by kidney disease, which leads to disturbances in calcium and phosphorus metabolism; prolonged illness can consequently result in rickets. Infants and young children with rib flaring should undergo comprehensive medical examinations at a hospital to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate intervention and treatment under a doctor's guidance.