Vitamin D deficiency and its treatment in cystic fibrosis.
Study Goal
The researchers aimed to examine the role of vitamin D in calcium homeostasis and skeletal health in individuals with cystic fibrosis (CF), as well as explore potential non-skeletal effects.
Results Summary
The study found that vitamin D deficiency in CF leads to skeletal complications like osteopenia and osteoporosis, and may also increase pulmonary exacerbations, though the mechanisms for non-skeletal effects are unclear. Higher doses of vitamin D are recommended to achieve target levels of circulating 25-hydroxyvitamin D.
Population
Individuals with cystic fibrosis (CF)
Effective Dosage
Higher doses of vitamin D (specific amounts not provided)
Duration
Not specified
Interactions
None mentioned
| Intervention | Direction | Endpoint | Population | Dosage | Impact | Claim # |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
routine vitamin D supplementation | no change | vitamin D deficiency | individuals with cystic fibrosis (CF) | - | is a common finding | #1 |
vitamin D deficiency | increase | skeletal complications of osteopenia and osteoporosis | individuals with cystic fibrosis (CF) | - | can lead to | #2 |
higher doses of vitamin D | increase | target levels of circulating 25-hydroxyvitamin D | individuals with cystic fibrosis (CF) | - | to achieve | #3 |
vitamin D deficiency | increase | non-skeletal consequences such as an increase in pulmonary exacerbations | individuals with cystic fibrosis (CF) | - | may have | #4 |
Vitamin D deficiency is a common finding in individuals with cystic fibrosis (CF), despite routine supplementation. Hypovitaminosis D is often the result of fat malabsorption, but other contributors include increased latitude, poor nutritional intake, decreased sun exposure, impaired hydroxylation of vitamin D, and non-adherence to the prescribed vitamin D regimen. Vitamin D is critical for calcium homeostasis and optimal skeletal health, and vitamin D deficiency in CF can lead to skeletal complications of osteopenia and osteoporosis. Over time, our understanding of treatment regimens for vitamin D deficiency in CF has evolved, leading to recommendations for higher doses of vitamin D to achieve target levels of circulating 25-hydroxyvitamin D. There is also some evidence that vitamin D deficiency may have non-skeletal consequences such as an increase in pulmonary exacerbations. The exact mechanisms involved in the non-skeletal complications of vitamin D deficiency are not clearly understood, but may involve the innate immune system. Future clinical studies are needed to help address whether vitamin D has a role in CF beyond skeletal health.