Musculoskeletal and Skin: Osteoporosis, Psoriasis · USMLE Step 1

A 60-year-old woman develops vertebral fractures despite adequate calcium intake. Her labs show low vitamin D levels. What is the mechanism?

  1. Reduced intestinal calcium uptake
  2. Increased urinary calcium loss
  3. Increased osteoblast activity
  4. Increased bone mineralization
Show answer and explanation

Correct answer: Reduced intestinal calcium uptake

Vitamin D deficiency reduces calcium absorption, leading to secondary hyperparathyroidism and bone loss. This accelerates osteoporosis.

Difficulty: Medium Question 17 of 20

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