Osteomalacia. Light micrograph of a section through bone tissue in osteomalacia. The network of bone struts (trabeculae) have a dark core, surrounded by new but incomplete bone growth (osteoid, red). The spaces between the trabeculae are white. This abnormal bone growth, usually caused by a deficiency of vitamin D, leads to bone deformities. It is one of the symptoms of rickets, where the vitamin D deficiency disrupts calcium absorption from the gut. The condition can also lead to calcium released from the bones causing an increase in blood calcium levels. Treatment is of the underlying cause, including vitamin D and calcium supplements.