Mseleni joint disease. Part II. Low serum calcium and magnesium levels in women.

Low calcium and magnesium levels were found in serum from women domiciled in an area where an osteo-arthrosis with a female preponderance is endemic. Despite decreased serum calcium, the methodology used indicated low circulating parathyroid hormone, while values for phosphorus, total alkaline phosphatase and the serum proteins were not remarkable. Alcoholism was excluded as a factor influencing the measured variables. The results reported, together with previous findings, justify intensified investigation into the link between diet-induced mineral deficiencies and endemic osteo-arthrosis at Mseleni.