Correlates of Calcidiol Deficiency in Adults-Cross-Sectional, Observational, Population-Based Study.

The prevalence, determinants, and clinical significance of vitamin D deficiency in the population are debated. The population-based study investigated the cross-sectional associations of several variables with serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (calcidiol) measured using standardized calibrators. The study cohort consisted of 979 persons of the Moli-sani study, both sexes, ages ≥35 years. The correlates in the analyses were sex, age, education, local solar irradiance in the month preceding the visit, physical activity, anthropometry, diabetes, kidney function, albuminuria, blood pressure, serum cholesterol, smoking, alcohol intake, calorie intake, dietary vitamin D intake, and vitamin D supplement. The serum calcidiol was log transformed for linear regression because it was positively skewed (skewness = 1.16). The prevalence of calcidiol deficiency defined as serum calcidiol ≤12 ng/mL was 24.5%. In multi-variable regression, older age, lower solar irradiance, lower leisure physical activity, higher waist/hip ratio, higher systolic pressure, higher serum cholesterol, smoking, lower alcohol intake, and no vitamin D supplement were independent correlates of lower serum calcidiol (95% confidence interval of standardized regression coefficient ≠ 0) and of calcidiol deficiency (95% confidence interval of odds ratio > 1). The data indicate that low serum calcidiol in the population could reflect not only sun exposure, age, and vitamin D supplementation but also leisure physical activity, abdominal obesity, systolic hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, smoking, and alcohol intake.

Vitamin D ameliorates adipose browning in chronic kidney disease cachexia.

Patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) are often 25(OH)D3 and 1,25(OH)2D3 insufficient. We studied whether vitamin D repletion could correct aberrant adipose tissue and muscle metabolism in a mouse model of CKD-associated cachexia. Intraperitoneal administration of 25(OH)D3 and 1,25(OH)2D3 (75 µg/kg/day and 60 ng/kg/day respectively for 6 weeks) normalized serum concentrations of 25(OH)D3 and 1,25(OH)2D3 in CKD mice. Vitamin D repletion stimulated appetite, normalized weight gain, and improved fat and lean mass content in CKD mice. Vitamin D supplementation attenuated expression of key molecules involved in adipose tissue browning and ameliorated expression of thermogenic genes in adipose tissue and skeletal muscle in CKD mice. Furthermore, repletion of vitamin D improved skeletal muscle fiber size and in vivo muscle function, normalized muscle collagen content and attenuated muscle fat infiltration as well as pathogenetic molecular pathways related to muscle mass regulation in CKD mice. RNAseq analysis was performed on the gastrocnemius muscle. Ingenuity Pathway Analysis revealed that the top 12 differentially expressed genes in CKD were correlated with impaired muscle and neuron regeneration, enhanced muscle thermogenesis and fibrosis. Importantly, vitamin D repletion normalized the expression of those 12 genes in CKD mice. Vitamin D repletion may be an effective therapeutic strategy for adipose tissue browning and muscle wasting in CKD patients.

Efecto del tratamiento con calcifediol, sobre los episodios cardiovasculares en pacientes revascularizados tras síndrome coronario agudo / Effect of calcifediol treatment on cardiovascular outcomes in patients with acute coronary syndrome and percutaneous revascularization

Antecedentes y objetivos: El déficit de 25(OH)D se ha relacionado con un riesgo cardiovascular aumentado, aunque los estudios de intervención son contradictorios. El objetivo principal fue evaluar el efecto del tratamiento con calcifediol (25(OH)D3) sobre el sistema cardiovascular en pacientes con síndrome coronario agudo sin elevación de segmento ST. Pacientes y método: Estudio prospectivo que incluyó a 41 pacientes (70,6±6,3 años) ≥60 años con síndrome coronario agudo sin elevación de segmento ST y enfermedad coronaria revascularizada percutáneamente. Se aleatorizaron a recibir calcifediol+tratamiento habitual o tratamiento habitual exclusivo, con evaluación de major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE, «episodios cardiovasculares mayores adversos») a los 3 meses. Se estudió la 25(OH)D en relación con otras variables analíticas y con la extensión de la enfermedad coronaria. Resultados: Niveles basales de 25(OH)D≤50nmol/l se asociaron a enfermedad coronaria multivaso (RR: 2,6 [IC 95%: 1,1-7,1], p=0,027) y 25(OH)D≤50nmol/l+paratohormona≥65pg/ml identificaron a pacientes con mayor riesgo de MACE (RR: 4 [IC 95%: 1,1-21,8], p=0,04). Se registró un MACE en el grupo de pacientes suplementados y 5 en el de tratamiento convencional (p=0,66). Entre los pacientes con niveles séricos de 25(OH)D≤50nmol/l al final del estudio el 28,6% presentaron MACE frente al 0% si los niveles eran>50nmol/l (RR: 1,4; p=0,037). Conclusiones: El déficit de vitamina D que implica un hiperparatiroidismo secundario puede ser un buen predictor de MACE. En pacientes suplementados con calcifediol se observó una tendencia a la disminución de MACE en el seguimiento. Niveles finales de 25(OH)D≤50nmol/l se asociaron significativamente a un mayor número de MACE, por lo que la normalización de 25(OH)D, además de mejorar la salud ósea, puede mejorar la salud cardiovascular

Background and objectives: Vitamin D deficiency has been consistently linked with cardiovascular diseases. However, results of intervention studies are contradictory. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of treatment with calcifediol (25(OH)D3) on the cardiovascular system of patients with non-ST-elevation acute coronary syndrome after percutaneous coronary intervention. Patients and methods: A prospective study assessing≥60-year-old patients with non-ST-elevation acute coronary syndrome, coronary artery disease and percutaneous revascularisation. We randomly assigned 41 patients (70.6±6.3 years) into 2 groups: Standard treatment+25(OH)D3 supplementation or standard treatment alone. Major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) were evaluated at the conclusion of the 3-month follow-up period. 25(OH)D levels were analysed with regard to other relevant analytical variables and coronary disease extent. Results: Basal levels of 25(OH)D≤50nmol/L were associated with multivessel coronary artery disease (RR: 2.6 [CI 95%:1.1-7.1], P=.027) and 25(OH)D≤50nmol/L+parathormone ≥65pg/mL levels correlated with increased risk for MACE (RR: 4 [CI 95%: 1.1-21.8], P=.04]. One MACE was detected in the supplemented group versus five in the control group (P=.66). Among patients with 25(OH)D levels≤50nmol/L at the end of the study, 28.6% had MACE versus 0% among patients with 25(OH)D>50nmol/L (RR: 1,4; P=.037). Conclusions: Vitamin D deficiency plus secondary hyperparathyroidism may be an effective predictor of MACE. A trend throughout the follow up period towards a reduction in MACE among patients supplemented with 25(OH)D3 was detected. 25(OH)D levels≤50nmol/L at the end of the intervention period were significantly associated with an increased number of MACE, hence, 25(OH)D level normalisation could improve cardiovascular health in addition to bone health

Vitamin D Regulates Maternal T-Helper Cytokine Production in Infertile Women.

Vitamin D (VD) deficiency is associated with reproductive failure. However, the relationship between VD and maternal immunity remains unclear. We investigated the clinical efficacy of VD in maternal T-helper (Th) cytokines in 276 infertile women and examined for Th1 and Th2 cells based on the deficient, insufficient, and sufficient serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 (25[OH]VD) levels (<12, 12⁻30, and >30 ng/mL, respectively). Most infertile women had a low-level of VD (87.3%). Immunological tests of pre-/post-VD supplementation were performed in patients who were deficient and insufficient in VD. Of 23 patients, 11 (47.8%) exhibited sufficient VD levels after supplementation. Th1/Th2 cell ratio in patients with insufficient VD was significantly decreased after supplementation (p = 0.004). After supplementation, serum 25(OH)VD levels of the patients: 11 in the sufficient group showed significant decreases in Th1 cell level and Th1/Th2 cell ratio (p = 0.032 and 0.010, respectively), whereas no significant differences in Th1/Th2 cell ratio were recognized in the insufficient group. Furthermore, mid-luteal endometrial biopsies (n = 18) were processed for primary cultures and measured interferon [IFN]-γ and interleukin [IL]-4 in condition media. Decidualizing cultures with 1,25-dihydroxvitamin D3 (1,25[OH]2VD) decreased IFN-γ. Sufficient VD supplementation in women with insufficient VD may optimize maternal T-helper cytokines during pregnancy via rebalancing the Th1/Th2 cell ratio.

[Prevalence of hypovitaminosis D and associated factors in Spanish population of school children and adolescents]. / Prevalencia de hipovitaminosis D y factores asociados en la edad infantojuvenil.

OBJECTIVE: To analyse the prevalence of hypovitaminosisD and associated factors in school children and adolescents living in a region of northern Spain. DESIGN: Cross-sectional study (convenience sampling). SETTING: Primary Health Care. PARTICIPANTS: A total of 602 Caucasian individuals (aged 3.1 to 15.4years) were included in the study. MAIN MEASUREMENTS: Prevalence of hypovitaminosisD were calculated (dependent variable). HypovitaminosisD is defined according to the US Endocrine Society criteria: deficiency (calcidiol <20ng/mL), insufficiency (calcidiol: 20-29ng/mL), and sufficiency (calcidiol ≥30ng/mL). Gender, age, body mass index, residence, and season of the year were recorded (independent variables), and their association with hypovitaminosisD was analysed by multiple regression. RESULTS: The prevalence of hypovitaminosisD was 60.4% (insufficiency: 44.6%; deficiency: 15.8%). Multivariate analysis showed that factors associated to hypovitaminosisD were being female (OR: 1.6; 95%CI: 1.1-2.3), pubertal age (OR: 1.8; 95%CI: 1.2-2.6), autumn (OR: 9.5; 95%CI: 4.8-18.7), winter (OR: 8.8; 95%CI: 4.5-17.5) and spring time (OR: 13.2; 95%CI: 6.4-27.5), living in urban areas (OR:1.6; CI95%: 1.1-2.2), and severe obesity (OR: 4.4; 95%CI: 1.9-10.3). CONCLUSIONS: There is a high prevalence of hypovitaminosisD in juvenile populations. being female, pubertal age, autumn, winter and spring seasons, severe obesity, and living in urban areas are factors associated to hypovitaminosisD. Consideration should be given to the administration of vitamin supplements and/or the increase in the ingestion of natural vitaminD dietary sources.

Prevalence and Trends of Vitamin D Deficiency among Iranian Adults: A Longitudinal Study from 2001-2013.

Vitamin D deficiency/insufficiency is currently considered to be a re-emerging public health problem globally. This study was designed to determine the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency and insufficiency and to investigate its trend from 2001 to 2013 in a longitudinal study of Iranian adults. This study was part of a population-based, longitudinal ongoing study of Iranian healthy adults aged 35 y and older at baseline. Serum vitamin D level was assessed in a sub-sample of 370 subjects, who were apparently healthy at the time of recruitment in 2001 and were free from MetS, in three phases (2001, 2007 and 2013) during the 12-y study period. Adjusted prevalence and trend of vitamin D deficiency were calculated. Mean serum vitamin D levels increased over the time of the study (52.12, 54.27 and 62.28 nmol/L, respectively) and the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency decreased (30.5, 27.0 and 24.4, respectively). However, the prevalence of vitamin D insufficiency did not change over this time period. The risk of vitamin D deficiency decreased significantly in 2007 [OR: 0.73 (95% CI: 0.53, 0.99)] and 2013 [OR: 0.50 (95% CI: 0.36, 0.70)] compared to the baseline. The present study demonstrated some improvement in serum vitamin D levels, while the prevalence of vitamin D inadequacy was still high. Considering the possible health consequences of vitamin D deficiency, there is an urgent need for developing population-wide strategies, such as supplementation and fortification, to prevent or control vitamin D deficiency.

The High Prevalence of Vitamin D Insufficiency in Cord Blood in Calgary, Alberta (APrON-D Study).

OBJECTIVE: Vitamin D is important in promoting healthy pregnancy and fetal development. We undertook this study to measure 25-hydroxyvitamin D in maternal and cord blood and to identify maternal factors related to vitamin D status in Calgary. METHODS: Blood samples collected at the time of delivery from the Alberta Pregnancy Outcomes and Nutrition study cohort (ApronStudy.ca) participants were processed for plasma and assayed using liquid chromatography mass spectrometry methodology for 25(OH)D3. RESULTS: Ninety-two pairs of maternal and cord blood samples were obtained. The prevalence of 25(OH)D3 insufficiency-25(OH)D3 <75 nmol/L-was 38% and 80% in women and neonates, respectively. Vitamin D supplementation was the only clinical factor associated with 25(OH)D3 sufficiency, and the odds of sufficiency were 3.75 (95% CI 1.00 to 14.07) higher for women and 5.27 (95% CI 1.37 to 20.27) when over 2000 IU/day were used. CONCLUSION: Using liquid chromatography mass spectrometry, we demonstrated a very high prevalence of vitamin D insufficiency in cord blood and that the use of high dose vitamin D was associated with greater odds of sufficiency in pregnant women and cord blood in Alberta.

Effect of isolated vitamin D supplementation on the rate of falls and postural balance in postmenopausal women fallers: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effect of isolated vitamin D supplementation (VITD) on the rate of falls and postural balance in postmenopausal women fallers. METHODS: In this double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, 160 Brazilian younger postmenopausal women were randomized into two groups: VITD group, vitamin D3 supplementation 1,000 IU/day/orally (n = 80) and placebo group (n = 80). Women with amenorrhea at least 12 months, age 50 to 65 years, and a history of falls (previous 12 months) were included. Those with neurological or musculoskeletal disorders, vestibulopathies, drugs use that could affect balance and osteoporosis were excluded. The intervention time was 9 months. Postural balance was assessed by stabilometry (computerized force platform) and investigation on the occurrence/recurrence of falls was performed by interviews. The plasma concentration of 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] was measured by high-performance liquid chromatography. Statistical analysis was achieved by intention-to-treat, using analysis of variance, Student's t test, Tukey test, chi-square, and logistic regression. RESULTS: After 9 months, mean values of 25(OH)D increased from 15.0 ±â€Š7.5 ng/mL to 27.5 ±â€Š10.4 ng/mL (+45.4%) in the VITD group, and decreased from 16.9 ±â€Š6.7 ng/mL to 13.8 ±â€Š6.0 ng/mL (-18.5%) in the placebo group (P < 0.001). The occurrence of falls was higher in the placebo group (+46.3%) with an adjusted risk of 1.95 (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.23-3.08) times more likely to fall and 2.80 (95% CI 1.43-5.50) times higher for recurrent falls compared to the VITD group (P < 0.001). There was reduction in body sway by stabilometry, with lower amplitude of antero-posterior (-35.5%) and latero-lateral (-37.0%) oscillation, only in the VITD group (P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: In Brazilian postmenopausal women fallers, isolated vitamin D supplementation for 9 months resulted in a lower incidence of falls and improvement in postural balance.

Vitamin D deficiency in pediatric patients with cystic fibrosis: associated risk factors in the northern United States.

OBJECTIVES: Cystic fibrosis (CF) is associated with vitamin D deficiency, which can lead to adverse effects including recurrent pulmonary infections and osteoporosis. We longitudinally investigated calcifediol or 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) levels for our pediatric patients with CF based on the time of year as well as vitamin D supplementation dosing ranges for these patients at our CF center. METHODS: We retrospectively evaluated vitamin D deficiency in our pediatric CF center for 2 years (baseline and annually) while evaluating 25(OH)D serum changes based on vitamin D supplementation, seasonality, patient age, and other factors associated with CF. RESULTS: Vitamin D supplementation was noted to be higher than current Cystic Fibrosis Foundation dosing recommendations, and no patient experienced vitamin D toxicity. Seasonality was a strong indicator of 25(OH)D levels, especially during summer or fall. Significantly fewer patients with initially low 25(OH)D levels maintained low levels at the conclusion of the study, suggesting benefit. Older patient age and higher supplemental dosing correlated with significantly lower 25(OH)D levels. CONCLUSIONS: This study suggests that targeted intervention among pediatric patients with CF living in northern latitudes of the United States, especially older children, is needed to prevent vitamin D deficiency.

25-Hydroxyvitamin D3-deficiency enhances oxidative stress and corticosteroid resistance in severe asthma exacerbation.

Oxidative stress plays a significant role in exacerbation of asthma. The role of vitamin D in oxidative stress and asthma exacerbation remains unclear. We aimed to determine the relationship between vitamin D status and oxidative stress in asthma exacerbation. Severe asthma exacerbation patients with 25-hydroxyvitamin D3-deficiency (V-D deficiency) or 25-hydroxyvitamin D-sufficiency (V-D sufficiency) were enrolled. Severe asthma exacerbation with V-D-deficiency showed lower forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) compared to that with V-D-sufficiency. V-D-deficiency intensified ROS release and DNA damage and increased TNF-α, OGG1 and NFκB expression and NFκB phosphorylation in severe asthma exacerbation. Supplemental vitamin D3 significantly increased the rates of FEV1 change and decreased ROS and DNA damage in V-D-deficiency. Vitamin D3 inhibited LPS-induced ROS and DNA damage and were associated with a decline in TNF-α and NFκB in epithelial cells. H2O2 reduces nuclear translocation of glucocorticoid receptors in airway epithelial cell lines. V-D pretreatment enhanced the dexamethasone-induced nuclear translocation of glucocorticoid receptors in airway epithelial cell lines and monocytes from 25-hydroxyvitamin D3-deficiency asthma patients. These findings indicate that V-D deficiency aggravates oxidative stress and DNA damage, suggesting a possible mechanism for corticosteroid resistance in severe asthma exacerbation.

[Severe 25-OH vitamin D deficiency in patients on chronic hemodialysis]. / Deficit severo di 25-OH Vitamina D in emodialisi cronica.

INTRODUCTION: 25-OH vitamin D deficiency is associated with increased cardiovascular mortality in general population and in chronic kidney disease. The aim of this study was to evaluate 25-OH-Vitamin D (25-D) serum levels in chronic hemodialysis (HD) patients and its relationship with cardiovascular and non-cardiovascular risk factors. MATERIAL AND METHODS: We performed a cross-sectional study with 187 prevalent HD patients (106 M/ 81 F) in chronic hemodialysis. 25-D were measured in January and blood samples were collected for analysis before a midweek HD session. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS: The mean age of patients was 67 15 years with the mean HD time of 73 68 months. Forty-six patients (25%) were diabetics. 31% of the patients were taking i.v. paricalcitol and 22% were taking calciomimetics. None of patients were receiving native vitamin D. Serum levels of 25-OH-Vitamin D were low (11,77,5 ng/ml). Only 4% of patients had values of 25- OH-Vitamin D considered normal by the guidelines KDOQI. Levels of 25-D were deficient and insufficient respectively in 73% and 23% of the patients. In univariate analysis, serum levels of 25-D were negatively correlated with female sex and diabetes and positively correlated with albumin. In multivariate analysis dialysis vintage, lower serum calcium, hypoalbuminemia, higher BMI and treatment with paricalcitol were independently associated with lower levels of 25-OH-Vitamin D. Deficiency of 25-D is extremely common in chronic hemodialysis. It is still to be investigated by randomized prospective studies if native vitamin D supplementation is able to improve clinical outcomes in dialysis.

Vitamin D deficiency and its correction in children with sickle cell anaemia.

Vitamin D deficiency is common in sickle cell anaemia (SCA, HbSS), although its significance and optimal means of correction are unknown. We conducted an audit to assess the clinical significance of 25-hydroxy vitamin D (25-OHD) deficiency in children with SCA and to evaluate two methods of vitamin D supplementation. We audited 25-OHD levels in 81 children with SCA and looked for statistical associations with biochemical, haematological and clinical parameters. In a separate group of regularly transfused children with SCA, we compared changes in 25-OHD blood concentrations following treatment with either high-dose intramuscular ergocalciferol (n = 15) or 4 days of high-dose oral cholecalciferol (n = 64). Ninety-one percent of children with SCA had 25-OHD levels <20 µg/L. The 25-OHD levels were negatively correlated with increasing age (P < 0.001) but showed no significant relationship to laboratory measurements, transcranial Doppler velocities or hospital attendance. Both intramuscular ergocalciferol and oral cholecalciferol supplementations resulted in increases of 25-OHD blood concentration to normal levels. The mean dose of ergocalciferol was greater than that of cholecalciferol (7,729 versus 5,234 international units (IU)/kg, P < 0.001), but the increment in 25-OHD levels was significantly greater in the oral cholecalciferol group (6.44 versus 2.82 (ng/L)/(IU/kg), P < 0.001). Both approaches resulted in vitamin D sufficiency for about 120 days. Increased 25-OHD concentration was significantly associated with increased serum calcium concentration. Vitamin D deficiency is very common in SCA and can be effectively corrected with high-dose intramuscular ergocalciferol or 4 days of high-dose oral cholecalciferol. Prospective, randomised studies are needed to assess the clinical value of vitamin D supplementation.

Vitamin D deficiency is independently associated with the extent of coronary artery disease.

BACKGROUND: Vitamin D (25-OH D3) deficiency represents a rising social and economic problem in Western countries. Vitamin D has been recently reported to modulate inflammatory processes, endothelium and smooth muscle cell proliferation and even platelet function, thus potentially modulating atherothrombosis. Great interest has been addressed on its impact on cardiovascular outcome, with contrasting results. The aim of current study was to evaluate the relationship between 25-OH D3 and the extent of coronary artery disease (CAD) in a consecutive cohort of patients undergoing coronary angiography. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Patients undergoing elective coronary angiography were included in a cross-sectional study. Fasting samples were collected for 25-OH D3 levels assessment. Significant CAD was defined as at least 1 vessel stenosis > 50%, while severe CAD as left main and/or trivessel disease, as evaluated by quantitative coronary angiography. RESULTS: Hypovitaminosis D was observed in 70·4% of 1484 patients. Patients were divided according to vitamin D tertiles (< 9·6; 9·6-18·4; ≥ 18·4). Lower vitamin D levels were associated with age, female gender (P < 0·001), renal failure (P = 0·05), active smoking (P = 0·001), acute coronary syndrome at presentation (P < 0·001), therapy with calcium antagonists (P = 0·02) and diuretics (P < 0·001), less beta-blockers (P = 0·02) and statins (P = 0·001) use. Vitamin D was directly related to haemoglobin (P < 0·001) and inversely with platelet count (P = 0·002), total and low-density-lipoprotein cholesterol (P = 0·002 and P < 0·001) and triglycerides (P = 0·01). Vitamin D did not influence angiographic features of coronary lesions, but was associated with higher prevalence of left main or right CAD (P = 0·03). Vitamin D deficiency was significantly associated with higher prevalence of CAD (adjusted OR [95%CI] = 1·32[1·1-1·6], P = 0·004) and severe CAD (adjusted OR [95%CI] = 1·18[1-1·39], P = 0·05). CONCLUSION: Hypovitaminosis D was observed in the vast majority of patients undergoing coronary angiography. Vitamin D deficiency is significantly associated with the prevalence and extent of CAD, especially for patients with values < 10 ng/mL. Therefore, future large studies are needed to evaluate whether vitamin D supplementation may prevent CAD and its progression.

Assessment of adequacy of vitamin D supplementation during pregnancy.

INTRODUCTION: Deficiency of vitamin D in pregnancy leads to higher incidences of preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, preterm birth, bacterial vaginosis, and also affects the health of the infants. According to Polish recommendations published in 2009, vitamin D supplementation in pregnant women should be provided from the 2nd trimester of pregnancy in daily dose of 800-1000 IU. The aim of the presented study is: 1) to estimate how many pregnant women comply with those recommendations and 2) to determine the 25(OH)D levels in pregnant women. PATIENTS AND METHODS: The study included 88 pregnant women, aged 20-40 years, between 12-35 week of gestation. Vitamin D concentrations [25(OH)D] were measured by a direct electrochemiluminescence immunoassay (Elecsys, Roche). RESULTS: 31 of 88 pregnant women (35.2%) did not use any supplementation. Mean level of 25(OH)D was 28.8 ± 14.8 ng/mL (range from 4.0 - 77.5 ng/mL). Vitamin D deficiency, defined as 25(OH)D concentration below 20 ng/mL, was found in 31.8% of the women (28/88). Insufficiency of vitamin D [25(OH)D concentration between 20-30 ng/mL] was present in 26.1% of the women (23/88). Optimal level of 25(OH)D (over 30 ng/mL) was present in 37/88 (42.0% women). Hence, in 46.2% of women taking vitamin D supplementation, the levels of 25(OH)D were still below 30 ng/mL. CONCLUSIONS: Supplementation of vitamin D in the investigated group was inadequate. More than 35% of pregnant women did not take any supplements, while half of the subjects who had declared taking vitamin D, failed to achieve optimal serum 25(OH)D concentration.

Influence of the immunoassay used in measurement of serum vitamin D levels.

INTRODUCTION: Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] levels are the best indicator of vitamin D levels in the body. Precision, reproducibility, and lack of standardization are the main problems in such measurements. The aim of this study was to compare the 25(OH)D levels measured using Elecsys Vitamin D Total (Roche) and ADVIA Centaur Vitamin D Total (Siemens). MATERIAL AND METHODS: 25(OH)D levels were tested in 166 patients using both methods. Patients were subsequently divided into two groups: a «supplemented group¼ consisting of patients receiving vitamin D supplements, and an «untreated group¼ consisting of the rest of patients. RESULTS: 25(OH)D mean levels measured by the Roche and Siemens methods in the overall group were 33.6±16.0 and 19.8±12.4 ng/mL respectively. 54.2% of patients were receiving vitamin D supplements. In this group, mean 25(OH)D levels measured by the Roche and Siemens methods were 40.6±14.5 and 25.4±13.1 ng/mL respectively. In the untreated group, the respective values were 24.9±13.2 and 12.8±6.6 ng/mL. Prevalence of vitamin D deficiency (serum 25(OH)D levels less than 20 ng/mL) was higher in samples analyzed using the Siemens method (60.2%) as compared to those tested using the Roche method (23.5%). CONCLUSION: The assays evaluated are not comparable to each other. Laboratory specialists should inform clinicians of the features of the method used for measuring 25(OH)D because this will have a direct impact on interpretation of the results and medical decisions.

Prevalence of 25-OH vitamin D deficiency in a population of hemodialysis patients and efficacy of an oral ergocalciferol supplementation regimen.

BACKGROUND/AIMS: Optimal dosing regimens for 25-OH vitamin D (VitD) deficiency are unknown in hemodialysis (HD) patients. Our aim was to evaluate the efficacy of prescribing ergocalciferol supplementation based on KDOQI guidelines for chronic kidney disease (CKD) stages III-IV in HD patients. METHODS: We conducted a retrospective study of 96 urban, predominately African-American HD patients at a single-center dialysis unit with VitD insufficiency or deficiency treated with ergocalciferol. Patients were classified as either compliant or non-compliant with supplementation as determined by review of pharmacy records. The primary outcome was VitD levels 6 months after initiation of treatment and secondary outcomes were VitD levels at 11 months, bone/mineral and anemia parameters. RESULTS: The population was predominately African-American (69%) and Hispanic (28%). There were 61 individuals in the compliant group and 35 individuals in the non-compliant group. The compliant group was older but otherwise similar in demographics and co-morbid conditions to the non-compliant group. After 6 months of treatment, the compliant group had a significant increase in VitD level (14.7 ± 6.0 to 28.7 ± 10.0 ng/ml, p < 0.0001) compared to the non-compliant group (14.7 ± 5.5 to 14.8 ± 7.1 ng/ml, p = 0.95). There were no differences in the incidence of hypercalcemia between the two groups. Except for a decrease in phosphorus in the compliant group (5.6 ± 1.6 to 4.9 ± 1.7 mg/dl, p = 0.004), there were no significant difference in bone/mineral or anemia parameters including dosing of darbepoetin. CONCLUSION: An ergocalciferol-prescribing strategy using the KDOQI guidelines for stage III-IV kidney disease in HD patients with VitD deficiency or insufficiency is inadequate to achieve repletion or maintenance of normal VitD levels.

Vitamin D levels in children born to vitamin D-deficient mothers.

AIM: To determine whether a standard daily dose of 400 IU vitamin D is sufficient to normalize vitamin D levels in infants born to vitamin D-deficient mothers. METHODS: The children were recruited from a study cohort of 68 immigrant and 51 non-immigrant pregnant women living in Stockholm. The women were monitored at 12 weeks of pregnancy, at delivery and together with their children, 6-18 months after birth. During pregnancy, most immigrant women (78%) had 25(OH)D3 levels <25 nmol/l. We here report the outcome of 25 infants born to these mothers. All infants received a daily supplementation dose of 400 IU vitamin D from 2 weeks of age. RESULTS: At birth, most children in the immigrant group were vitamin D-deficient (23.3 nmol/l (12-54); mean and range) while at 6-18 months of age vitamin D levels were essentially normalized (82.8 nmol/l (38-142)) although 4 children still had subnormal levels consistent with vitamin D insufficiency. CONCLUSION: A daily recommended supplementation dose of 400 IU vitamin D is sufficient in most children of vitamin D-deficient immigrant women living in Sweden.

Vitamin D plasma levels during summer in a psychiatric population are comparable to the winter levels of healthy individuals.

INTRODUCTION: Our understanding of the influence of a low plasma-25(OH) vitamin D3 (25-OHD) level on psychiatric disease is growing. Very limited information is available about the 25-OHD level in psychiatric populations. This study was initiated to determine which patients should have their 25-OHD levels analysed and who would require treatment. MATERIAL AND METHODS: This retrospective, cross-sectional study comprised patients admitted for hospitalisation at Mental Health Centre Frederiksberg from 25 May to 9 September 2010. A total of 170 patients and their corresponding 25-OHD results were included. RESULTS: Of the 170 patients, 55% (n = 93) were women and 45% (n = 77) were men. Thirteen patients (8%) had severe to moderate 25-OHD deficiency, 59 had insufficiency and 98 had a normal 25-OHD. In total, 42% of the results were abnormal. No differences were detected according to sex, age or diagnosis group. No correlation was found between 25-OHD and cobalamine, thyroid-stimulating hormone or Ca2+. CONCLUSION: It should be possible from the patient history, i.e. geographical or lifestyle issues, to identify patients at risk of 25-OHD deficiency or insufficiency, and only perform the 25-OHD test on these patients. A vitamin D supplement may be considered for all high-risk patients even without knowing their exact 25-OHD values. This would allow such patients to be treated as recommended (the Danish Health and Medicines Authority). The recommended treatment for "patients who do not get out and who avoid the sun" is a daily 10 µg vitamin D supplement. Some of the patients may preferably be treated as "nursing home residents" and thus be given a 20 µg vitamin D supplement and 800-1,000 mg calcium daily. FUNDING: We received DKK 5,000 from "Helge Hørrings Fond til fremme for skizofreniforskning". This amount covered statistical assistance. TRIAL REGISTRATION: not relevant.

Vitamin D status and scholastic achievement in middle age childhood.

Non-classical effects of vitamin D are not surprising in that many tissues, including neurons, possess vitamin D receptors. Thirty school aged children with delayed scholastic achievement and 15 normal ones were enrolled in the current study to identify the serum 25-hydroxy vitamin D [25(OH) D] status in school aged children in relation to their scholastic achievement. Besides estimation of serum 25(OH) D levels, neuro-developmental assessment was done using the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children (WISC) and the Benton's Visual Retention Test (BVRT). Serum 25(OH) D was significantly lower in children with delayed scholastic achievement. Picture completion scores were significantly lower in children with deficient and inadequate serum 25(OH) D. There were positive correlations between serum 25(OH) D level and values of WISC. Regarding BVRT results, good memory was associated with adequate serum 25(OH) D. In conclusion, serum 25(OH) D is deficient in children with delayed scholastic achievement causing affection of memory and learning process. Larger scale studies using learning assessment tools are thus recommended to further prove this point and search the impact of vitamin D supplementation on the school achievement in this age group.

Effect of physical activity and sun exposure on vitamin D status of Saudi children and adolescents.

BACKGROUND: Accumulating evidence suggests an increased prevalence of vitamin D deficiency in the Middle East. In this context, we aimed to determine whether the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency is related to degree of physical activity and sun exposure among apparently healthy Saudi children and adolescents, a little studied population. METHODS: A total of 331 Saudi children aged 6-17 years (153 boys and 178 girls) were included in this cross sectional study. Levels of physical activity and sun exposure were determined using a standard questionnaire. Anthropometry, serum calcium and 25-(OH) vitamin D were analyzed. RESULTS: All subjects were vitamin D deficient, the majority being moderately deficient (71.6%). Age was the single most significant predictor affecting 25 (OH) Vitamin D levels, explaining 21% of the variance perceived (p = 1.68 x 10-14). Age-matched comparisons revealed that for groups having the same amount of sun exposure, those with moderate or are physically active will have higher levels of vitamin D status, though levels in across groups remained deficient. CONCLUSION: Vitamin D deficiency is common among Saudi children and adolescents, and is influenced by both sun exposure and physical activity. Promotion of an active outdoor lifestyle among Saudi children in both homes and schools may counteract the vitamin D deficiency epidemic in this vulnerable population. Vitamin D supplementation is suggested in all groups, including those with the highest sun exposure and physical activity.