Transverse lines in the long bones of children, sometimes called the lines of von Looser, are not infrequently demonstrated in roentgen films. These lines are seen not only in children but also in infants and even in the new-born. A number of observers1 have attempted to correlate the markings with a deficiency disease, such as rickets. Their opinion receives support from experimental rickets, in the healing stages of which lines such as those mentioned appear. However, lines of von Looser may occur in conditions other than specific vitamin deficiencies. For instance, severe infections, anemias, malnutrition and the administration of phosphorus may give rise to the roentgen appearance observed by von Looser and others in rickets.
An illustrative case, due presumably to the effects of a tuberculous infection or to administration of phosphorus has been encountered by us, which because of the generalized involvement appears to warrant reporting.
REPORT OF