Mbd in bearded dragon's

[Reptile Gem]

What are the signs of these diseases?

Metabolic bone disease (MBD) is a complex disease and is probably the most common health problem of pet Bearded Dragons. MBD is most often caused by feeding an improper diet that is high in phosphorus and low in calcium or Vitamin D3 (caused either by a direct nutritional deficiency or either a lack of UV-B lighting or a lack of exposure to natural light). Common signs include swelling of the lower jaw, softening of the jaw and facial bones (rubber jaw) and/or swelling of the hind limbs. X-rays reveal thin bone tissue (decreased density), widening and thickening bone shafts and possibly fractures that appear to have happened with minimal force or for no apparent reason. Green-stick fractures, bones that appear to fold or bend rather than break apart, occur in soft bones. Blood tests may show a low calcium level and an improper calcium phosphorus ratio. As the condition progresses, muscle twitching, seizures, loss of appetite, and loss of energy (lethargy) are seen. MBD is also known as fibrous osteodystrophy or nutritional secondary hyperparathyroidism. It is most commonly seen in juvenile Bearded Dragons (less than 2 years old).