Abstract
Major biologic function of activated vitamin D is to maintain normal blood levels of calcium and phosphorus, thus regulating bone mineralization. Research suggests that vitamin D may help in immunomodulation, regulating cell growth and 1,4 differentiation as well as some diverse unspecified functions. Overt vitamin D deficiency leads to hypocalcaemia, secondary hyperparathyroidism and increased bone turnover, which in prolonged and severe cases may cause rickets in children and osteomalacia in elderly.... JMS 2011;14(2):40-42
Highlights
Major biologic function of activated vitamin D is to maintain normal blood levels of calcium and phosphorus, regulating bone mineralization.[1,2,3] Research suggests that vitamin D may help in immunomodulation, regulating cell growth and differentiation as well as some diverse unspecified functions.[1,4] Overt vitamin D deficiency leads to hypocalcaemia, secondary hyperparathyroidism and increased bone turnover, which in prolonged and severe cases may cause rickets in children and osteomalacia in elderly.[2,3,5]
Vitamin D deficiency is prevalent in Kashmir valley, with a study by Zargar A H et al showing about 80% of a healthy cohort has lower than the normal level of this important vitamin, and about 25% of these are severely vitamin D deficient.[22]
Vitamin D repletion in individuals with vitamin D deficiency has been shown to have a positive effect on bone biology, increase in bone mineral density measurements and possibly reduced fracture rates.[23,24]
Summary
Major biologic function of activated vitamin D is to maintain normal blood levels of calcium and phosphorus, regulating bone mineralization.[1,2,3] Research suggests that vitamin D may help in immunomodulation, regulating cell growth and differentiation as well as some diverse unspecified functions.[1,4] Overt vitamin D deficiency leads to hypocalcaemia, secondary hyperparathyroidism and increased bone turnover, which in prolonged and severe cases may cause rickets in children and osteomalacia in elderly.[2,3,5]. Vitamin D repletion in individuals with vitamin D deficiency has been shown to have a positive effect on bone biology, increase in bone mineral density measurements and possibly reduced fracture rates.[23,24] The best way to treat a deficient patient is to fortify the foods (as is done in developed countries) or to give supplements in the form of tablets (long term), sachets (short term) or injections (under medical supervision).
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary 
Published Version (
Free)
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call