1,25(OH)2D3 is not the only D metabolite involved in the pathogenesis of osteomalacia.

Three patients are described in whom there was no simple correlation between plasma 1,25(OH)2D3 concentration and the occurrence of osteomalacia. One patient had severe osteomalacia with high plasma 1,25(OH)2D3 and normal mineral ion product; the second had a normal mineral ion product and no evidence of osteomalacia even though plasma 1,25(OH)2D3 was undetectable; and the third had osteomalacia, low plasma 1,25(OH)2D3 and a reduced mineral ion product. In considering these data in the light of presently available information, it is concluded that osteomalacia can occur as a consequence of a lack of a vitamin D metabolite other than 1,25(OH)2D3, or a consequence of a reduced mineral ion product, but not as a consequence of 1,25(OH)2D3 lack if the mineral ion product is normally maintained and other D metabolites are present. However, a deficiency of 1,25(OH)2D3 normally leads to a reduction in the mineral ion product hence 1,25(OH)2D3 deficiency may play a role in the development of certain forms of osteomalacia.