Clinical Aspects of Vitamin D Deficiency in Multiple Sclerosis

Abstract

Introduction: Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a multifactorial, immune-mediated disorder that occurs in genetically predisposed people. Vitamin D might be an important environmental factor in the development and prevention of MS disease. We aimed to investigate the role of vitamin D in MS disease activity. Material and Methods: The study was designed as a prospective study. Thirty-two patients and 15 healthy subjects were included. Variables were MS disease duration, number of relapses, Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) scores, serum vitamin D levels, assessments through neuropsychological tests relevant to depression, cognition, anxiety and fatigue. Results: The mean age of the subjects was 32.6±6.9 years. A significant positive correlation was found between the vitamin D level during relapse and remission. A statistically significant difference was found between the patients in relapse and controls in serum vitamin D levels (p=0.002). A statistically significant difference was found between the patients in relapse and patients in remission, in serum vitamin D concentrations (p<0.001). Statistically significant differences were found between the patients in relapse and controls in MMSE, Beck Depression Inventory, Benedict's Cognition Test, Fatigue Severity Scale, PASAT, State-Trait Anxiety Inventory scores (p=0.01, p<0.001, p=0.01, p<0.001, p=0.007, p<0.001 and p<0.001, respectively). Conclusion: Vitamin D in association with other therapies may prevent the progression of MS-related disabilities and the relapses in RRMS. Vitamin D levels may have effects on the symptoms (depression, anxiety, cognitive deterioration, and fatigue) which are frequently seen in the course of MS.