Relationship between Glucocorticoid-induced Osteoporosis and Vitamine D Receptor Genotypes

By means of polym erase chain reaction- restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR- RFL P) assay,the association between vitamine D receptor (VDR) genotypes and bone min- eral density (BMD) in the patients receiving long- term glucocorticoid therapy was studied.The clinical data and blood of71patients with rheumatosis who received long- term glucocorticoid ther- apy were collected.BMD was m easured by dual- energy X- ray absorptimometry.VDR gene frag- ment(about185 bp) was amplified by PCR from the extracted genomic DNA,then digested with restriction endonuclease Bsm I.The genotypes were evaluated based on the fragment length fol- lowing endonuclease digestion and the association between genotypes and BMD or Z- score values was analyzed.Among the 71cases,the detected genotypes were Bb and bb with the distribution frequency being 11.3% and 88.7% respectively.The distribution frequency of the alleles was in agreement with the Hardy- Weinberg equilibrium.There was no significant difference between the two genotypes in age,gender,body m ass index(BMI) ,disease duration,disease types,time of glucocorticoid administration and cumulative dosage(P>0 .0 5 ) .Osteoporosis rate of the patients with Bb or bb genotype was37.5 % and33.3% respectively,with the difference being notsignif- icant (χ2 =0 .0 5 ,P=0 .8) .The BMD and Z- score values at lumbar spine and femur in two geno- types were not similar,but the difference had no significant (P>0 .0 5 ) .The distribution frequen- cy of bb type of VDR genotypes in Han populations of China was m ore prevalent,followed by Bb and bb types in turn.In the patients receiving long- term glucocorticoid therapy,there was no sig- nificant difference in BMD between Bb and bb genotypes.The data suggest that the VDR geno- types may not be m eans of identifying patients at greater risk of glucocorticoid- induced osteoporo- sis,which await to be further confirmed by a large sample size.

Vitamin D,selenium,and antidiabetic drugs in the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus with Hashimoto's thyroiditis

BACKGROUND Diabetes and thyroiditis are closely related.They occur in combination and cause significant damage to the body.There is no clear treatment for type-2 diabetes mellitus(T2DM)with Hashimoto's thyroiditis(HT).While single symptomatic drug treatment of the two diseases is less effective,combined drug treatment may improve efficacy.AIM To investigate the effect of a combination of vitamin D,selenium,and hypoglycemic agents in T2DM with HT.METHODS This retrospective study included 150 patients with T2DM and HT treated at The Central Hospital of Shaoyang from March 2020 to February 2023.Fifty patients were assigned to the control group,test group A,and test group B according to different treatment methods.The control group received low-iodine diet guidance and hypoglycemic drug treatment.Test group A received the control treatment plus vitamin D treatment.Test group B received the group A treatment plus selenium.Blood levels of markers of thyroid function[free T3(FT3),thyroid stimulating hormone(TSH),free T4(FT4)],autoantibodies[thyroid peroxidase antibody(TPOAB)and thyroid globulin antibody(TGAB)],blood lipid index[low-density lipoprotein cholesterol(LDL-C),total cholesterol(TC),triacylglycerol(TG)],blood glucose index[fasting blood glucose(FBG),and hemoglobin A1c(HbA1c)]were measured pre-treatment and 3 and 6 months after treatment.The relationships between serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D3[25(OH)D3]level and each of these indices were analyzed.RESULTS The levels of 25(OH)D3,FT3,FT4,and LDL-C increased in the order of the control group,test group A,and test group B(all P<0.05).The TPOAB,TGAB,TC,TG,FBG,HbA1c,and TSH levels increased in the order of test groups B,A,and the control group(all P<0.05).All the above indices were compared after 3 and 6 months of treatment.Pre-treatment,there was no divergence in serum 25(OH)D3 level,thyroid function-related indexes,autoantibodies level,blood glucose,and blood lipid index between the control group,test groups A and B(all P>0.05).The 25(OH)D3 levels in test groups A and B were negatively correlated with FT4 and TGAB(all P<0.05).CONCLUSION The combination drug treatment for T2DM with HT significantly improved thyroid function,autoantibody,and blood glucose and lipid levels.

Calcium-fortified fresh milk ameliorates postmenopausal osteoporosis via regulation of bone metabolism and gut microbiota in ovariectomized rats

The aging of the global population has made postmenopausal osteoporosis prevention essential;however,pharmacological treatments are limited.Herein,we evaluate the effect of calcium-fortified fresh milk(FM)in ameliorating postmenopausal osteoporosis in a rat model established using bilateral ovariectomy.After 3 months of FM(containing vitamin D,and casein phosphopeptides,1000 mg Ca/100 g)or control milk(110 mg Ca/100 g milk)supplementation,bone changes were assessed using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry,microcomputed tomography,and bone biomechanical testing.The results revealed that FM can regulate bone metabolism and gut microbiota composition,which act on bone metabolism through pathways associated with steroid hormone biosynthesis,relaxin signaling,serotonergic synapse,and unsaturated fatty acid biosynthesis.Furthermore,FM administration significantly increased bone mineral content and density in the lumbar spine and femur,as well as femoral compressive strength,while improving femoral trabecular bone parameters and microarchitecture.Mechanistically,we found that the effects may be due to increased levels of estrogen,bone formation marker osteocalcin,and procollagen typeⅠN-propeptide,and decreased expression of the bone resorption marker C-telopiptide and tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase 5b.Overall,the findings suggest that FM is a potential alternative therapeutic option for ameliorating postmenopausal osteoporosis.

Metabolic disorders in prediabetes:From mechanisms to therapeutic management

Diabetes,one of the world's top ten diseases,is known for its high mortality and complication rates and low cure rate.Prediabetes precedes the onset of diabetes,during which effective treatment can reduce diabetes risk.Prediabetes risk factors include high-calorie and high-fat diets,sedentary lifestyles,and stress.Consequences may include considerable damage to vital organs,including the retina,liver,and kidneys.Interventions for treating prediabetes include a healthy lifestyle diet and pharmacological treatments.However,while these options are effective in the short term,they may fail due to the difficulty of long-term implementation.Medications may also be used to treat prediabetes.This review examines prediabetic treatments,particularly metformin,glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists,sodium glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors,vitamin D,and herbal medicines.Given the remarkable impact of prediabetes on the progression of diabetes mellitus,it is crucial to intervene promptly and effectively to regulate prediabetes.However,the current body of research on prediabetes is limited,and there is considerable confusion surrounding clinically relevant medications.This paper aims to provide a comprehensive summary of the pathogenesis of prediabetes mellitus and its associated therapeutic drugs.The ultimate goal is to facilitate the clinical utilization of medications and achieve efficient and timely control of diabetes mellitus.

Unlocking the potential-vitamin D in prostate cancer prevention

Prostate cancer poses a significant health challenge globally,demanding proactive prevention strategies.This editorial explores the emerging role of vitamin D in prostate cancer prevention.While traditionally associated with bone health,vitamin D is increasingly recognized for its broader impact on immune function,cellular signaling,and cancer prevention.Epidemiological studies suggest an intriguing link between vitamin D deficiency and elevated prostate cancer risk,particularly in regions with limited sunlight exposure.Mechanistically,vitamin D regulates cellular processes,inhibiting unchecked cancer cell growth and bols-tering immune surveillance.Personalized prevention strategies,considering individual factors,are deemed essential for harnessing the full potential of vitamin D.To unlock this potential,the future calls for robust research,public awareness campaigns,dietary improvements,and vigilant medical guidance.Collaborative efforts are poised to pave the way toward a future where vitamin D stands as a sentinel in prostate cancer prevention,ushering in hope and improved health for men worldwide.

Role of vitamin D in COVID-19 and other viral infections

Vitamin D is a steroid hormone that is naturally produced in the body or obtained through dietary sources,primarily under the influence of UVB radiation.This essential nutrient has a vital role in numerous physiological processes,encom-passing immune function,cell growth,differentiation,insulin regulation,and cardiovascular well-being,along with its pivotal role in sustaining the delicate equilibrium of calcium and phosphate concentrations in the body.Moreover,vitamin D reinforces mucosal defense and bolsters the immune system through immunomodulation,making it a critical component of overall health.Numerous studies have unveiled the profound connection between vitamin D and the predisposition to respiratory tract infections,including well-known viruses such as influenza and the novel severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2.Vita-min D deficiency has been consistently linked to increased severity of coronavirus disease 2019(COVID-19)and a heightened risk of mortality among afflicted individuals.Retrospective observational studies have further substantiated these findings,indicating that levels of vitamin D are linked with both the occurrence and severity of COVID-19 cases.Vitamin D has its influence on viral infections th-rough a multitude of mechanisms,such as promoting the release of antimicrobial peptides and fine-tuning the responses of the immune system.Additionally,vitamin D is intertwined with the intricate network of the renin–angiotensin system,suggesting a potential impact on the development of complications related to COVID-19.While further clinical trials and extensive research are warranted,the existing body of evidence strongly hints at the possible use of vitamin D as a valuable tool in the prophylaxis and management of COVID-19 and other viral infectious diseases.

Bowel function and inflammation: Is motility the other side of the coin?

Digestion and intestinal absorption allow the body to sustain itself and are the emblematic functions of the bowel.On the flip side,functions also arise from its role as an interface with the environment.Indeed,the gut houses microorganisms,collectively known as the gut microbiota,which interact with the host,and is the site of complex immune activities.Its role in human pathology is complex and scientific evidence is progressively elucidating the functions of the gut,especially regarding the pathogenesis of chronic intestinal diseases and inflammatory conditions affecting various organs and systems.This editorial aims to highlight and relate the factors involved in the pathogenesis of intestinal and systemic inflammation.

Iodine Nutrition, Thyroid-stimulating Hormone, and Related Factors of Postpartum Women from three Different Areas in China: A Cross-sectional Survey

Objective Studies on the relationship between iodine,vitamin A(VA),and vitamin D(VD)and thyroid function are limited.This study aimed to analyze iodine and thyroid-stimulating hormone(TSH)status and their possible relationships with VA,VD,and other factors in postpartum women.Methods A total of 1,311 mothers(896 lactating and 415 non-lactating)from Hebei,Zhejiang,and Guangxi provinces were included in this study.The urinary iodine concentration(UIC),TSH,VA,and VD were measured.Results The median UIC of total and lactating participants were 142.00µg/L and 139.95µg/L,respectively.The median TSH,VA,and VD levels in all the participants were 1.89 mIU/L,0.44μg/mL,and 24.04 ng/mL,respectively.No differences in the UIC were found between lactating and non-lactating mothers.UIC and TSH levels were significantly different among the three provinces.The rural UIC was higher than the urban UIC.Obese mothers had a higher UIC and a higher prevalence of excessive TSH.Higher UICs and TSHs levels were observed in both the VD deficiency and insufficiency groups than in the VD-sufficient group.After adjustment,no linear correlation was observed between UIC and VA/VD.No interaction was found between vitamins A/D and UIC on TSH levels.Conclusion The mothers in the present study had no iodine deficiency.Region,area type,BMI,and VD may be related to the iodine status or TSH levels.

Vitamin D, selenium in type 2 diabetes and Hashimoto's thyroiditis: Is it effective?

The study by Feng et al,explores treatment approaches for these coexisting conditions.It emphasizes the potential advantages of selenium and vitamin D supplementation but also raises methodological and patient selection concerns.Findings indicate a complex interplay between interventions and disease markers,prompting the need for further research.Despite limitations,the study offers valuable insights into managing the intricate relationship between type 2 diabetes mellitus and Hashimoto's thyroiditis.The authors'contributions shed light on potential treatment avenues,although careful consideration of study design and patient characteristics is warranted for future investigations in this domain.

Unraveling colorectal cancer prevention:The vitamin D-gut flora-immune system nexus

Colorectal cancer(CRC)is one of the most common cancers diagnosed in the world.Although environmental and genetic factors play a major role in the pathogenesis of CRC,extensive research has suggested that vitamin D may play a pivotal role in the development of CRC.Vitamin D,primarily obtained through sunlight exposure,dietary sources,and supplements,has long been recognized for its essential functions in maintaining health,including immune regulation.This article delves into the intricate relationship between vitamin D,the immune system,gut flora,and the prevention of CRC.It presents a synthesis of epidemiological data,experimental studies,and clinical trials,highlighting the mechanisms by which vitamin D influences immune cell function,cytokine production,and inflammation.By enhancing the immune system’s surveillance and antitumor activity,vitamin D may offer a promising avenue for CRC prevention.Furthermore,this comprehensive review delves into the prospective clinical applications of vitamin D supplementation and delineates the forthcoming avenues of research in this dynamic domain.Additionally,the paper tentatively outlines a spectrum of prophylactic impacts of vitamin D on CRC,emphasizing its significant potential in reducing CRC risk through shedding light on its mechanisms,encompassing antineoplastic mechanisms,influences on the immune system,and modulation of the gut microbiome.

Vitamin D 1,25-Dihydroxyvitamin D_(3) reduces lipid accumulation in hepatocytes by inhibiting M1 macrophage polarization

BACKGROUND Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease(NAFLD),which is a significant liver condition associated with metabolic syndrome,is the leading cause of liver diseases globally and its prevalence is on the rise in most nations.The protective impact of vitamin D on NAFLD and its specific mechanism remains unclear.AIM To examine the role of vitamin D in NAFLD and how vitamin D affects the polarization of hepatic macrophages in NAFLD through the vitamin D receptor(VDR)-peroxisome proliferator activated receptor(PPAR)γpathway.METHODS Wild-type C57BL/6 mice were provided with a high-fat diet to trigger NAFLD model and administered 1,25-dihydroxy-vitamin D[1,25(OH)_(2)D_(3)]supplementation.1,25(OH)_(2)D_(3) was given to RAW264.7 macrophages that had been treated with lipid,and a co-culture with AML12 hepatocytes was set up.Lipid accumulation,lipid metabolism enzymes,M1/M2 phenotype markers,proinflammatory cytokines and VDR-PPARγpathway were determined.RESULTS Supplementation with 1,25(OH)_(2)D_(3) relieved hepatic steatosis and decreased the proinflammatory M1 polarization of hepatic macrophages in NAFLD.Administration of 1,25(OH)_(2)D_(3) suppressed the proinflammatory M1 polarization of macrophages induced by fatty acids,thereby directly relieving lipid accumulation and metabolism in hepatocytes.The VDR-PPARγpathway had a notable impact on reversing lipid-induced proinflammatory M1 polarization of macrophages regulated by the administration of 1,25(OH)_(2)D_(3).CONCLUSION Supplementation with 1,25(OH)_(2)D_(3) improved hepatic steatosis and lipid metabolism in NAFLD,linked to its capacity to reverse the proinflammatory M1 polarization of hepatic macrophages,partially by regulating the VDRPPARγpathway.The involvement of 1,25(OH)_(2)D_(3) in inhibiting fatty-acid-induced proinflammatory M1 polarization of macrophages played a direct role in relieving lipid accumulation and metabolism in hepatocytes.

Vitamin D and selenium for type 2 diabetes mellitus with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis:Dosage and duration insights

This letter discusses the publication by Feng et al.Iodine,selenium,and vitamin D are closely associated with thyroid hormone production in humans;however,the efficacy of selenium and vitamin D supplementation for type 2 diabetes mellitus(T2DM)patients with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis(HT)remains controversial.In the retrospective study we discuss herein,the authors highlighted significant improvements in thyroid function,thyroid antibodies,blood glucose,and blood lipid in T2DM patients with HT following addition of vitamin D and selenium to their antidiabetic regimens,underscoring the value of these supplements.Our team is currently engaged in research exploring the relationship between micronutrients and HT,and we have obtained invaluable insights from the aforementioned study.Based on this research and current literature,we recommend a regimen of 4000 IU/day of vitamin D and 100-200μg/day of selenium for over three months to six months for patients with HT,particularly for those with concurrent T2DM.

Vitamin D and prostate cancer prevention

Vitamin D is a hot topic nowadays,especially its relationship with cancer pre-vention.Normally,vitamin D is associated with bone health principally,but the new research has discovered an impact on immune function and cellular sig-naling,even in same studies talk about a hormone,however,the most important relationship is its implication in cellular processes,inhibiting cancer growth.For now,the recent studies are oriented about a benefit and a cause-effect relationship between prostate cancer and normal levels of vitamin D.This premise opens a lot of questions in this scenario.This editorial highlighted the most important studies in this area.

Vitamin D, Parathyroid Hormone, Insulin Sensitivity and Islet β-Cell Secretory Function in Diabetic Patients from South Kivu in the Democratic Republic of Congo: Cross-Sectional Study

Background: The role of vitamin D and parathyroid hormone in the metabolic profile of type 2 diabetes mellitus in sub-Saharan Africa has not been adequately assessed. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of low vitamin D level and secondary hyperparathyroidism and their association with insulin sensitivity and β-cell secretory function among Congolese type 2 diabetics. Methodology: Fasting glycaemia, fasting insulin, 25OH D3 and human parathyroid hormone (hPTH) were measured in one hundred and eighty-four type 2 diabetic patients followed as outpatients in South Kivu. Levels of 25OH D3 65 pg/ml defined low vitamin D and elevated parathyroid hormone levels, respectively. The HOMA model was used to measure insulin sensitivity and β-cell secretory function. Results: Medians (IQR) were 25.3 (20.4 - 32.4) ng/ml for 25OH D3 and 53.7 (38.4 - 115.7) pg/ml for hPTH. 58.7% of diabetics had insulin resistance, 126 (68.5%) had low vitamin D and 80 (43.5%) had hyperparathyroidism. In multivariate analysis, hPTH (partial r = −0.28;p = 0.0002) and 25OH D3 (partial r = 0.16;p = 0.03) showed an independent association with insulin sensitivity after adjustment for body mass index and waist circumference. Finally, hPTH (partial r = 0.27;p = 0.0002) was the sole determinant of β-cell secretory function. Conclusions: This study confirms the high prevalence of low vitamin D level and secondary hyperparathyroidism and their association with insulin resistance and impaired islet β-cell secretory function among Congolese with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Vitamin D and calcium supplementation should be envisaged for cases of deficiency in this region.

Current Insights on Vitamin D Intake, Status and Symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome: A Narrative Review

The association between Vitamin D and IBS has attracted growing interest because of vitamin D’s involvement in immune system function and reduction of inflammation. IBS, a prevalent gastrointestinal condition marked by symptoms such as stomach pain, bloating, and changed bowel habits, implies that sufficient levels of Vitamin D may impact the symptomatology and quality of life associated with IBS. This review aimed to unveil current insights on vitamin D intake, status and symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome. A search was conducted on Embase, Scopus, Medline, and Cochrane Library, as well as a reference list of relevant studies. This paper also examined the current therapeutic practices for using vitamin D in the management of IBS. Although several studies demonstrate a positive association between vitamin D administration and the alleviation of IBS symptoms, the data is not yet definitive. Moreover, the review emphasised the necessity for additional rigorous clinical studies to determine a definitive therapeutic function of vitamin D in IBS based on the literature. The role of vitamin D in the modulation of gut health, particularly in IBS, has garnered significant attention due to its potential impact on both inflammation and the integrity of the gut barrier. Vitamin D, acting as a hormone precursor, is recognised for its crucial involvement in maintaining calcium balance and promoting bone health.

The Effect of the Paleo Diet on People Suffering from Osteoporosis (Review Paper)

Osteoporosis is a disease that decreases bone mass and increases bone porosity, weakening bones. The Paleo diet is an eating plan that imitates the dietary patterns of the Stone Age. It excludes grains, dairy, and processed foods and emphasizes feeding on lean meats, fruits, vegetables, and nuts. Consumption of the Paleo diet has many positive sides, such as high protein intake and weight loss. Still, excluding dairy products risks calcium and vitamin D deficiencies, which are crucial for bone health. Statistics and simulations that have explored the relationship between the Paleo diet and bone health (especially for people suffering from low bone density) show mixed outcomes on bone health.). While the consumer does get lots of benefits from fruit and vegetable intake in a large sum due to them containing nutrients like magnesium, potassium, and vitamin K (which are also necessary for bone health), the lack of dairy products (gives the maximum amount of calcium and vitamin D) raises concerns about maintaining adequate bone mineral density (BMD). More information on this topic shows the negative impact of this diet on people suffering from osteoporosis due to a lack of nutrient intake that nourishes the bone. Although the Paleo diet can enhance overall health through nutrient-dense foods and reduced processed intake, it can’t be said the same for people suffering from osteoporosis.

Preparation and Characterization of Vitamin-D Incorporated Marshmallow

This project looks at a novel way to enhance the sensory experience of vitamin D ingestion by incorporating it into marshmallows. This investigation used a human panel taste test with twelve individuals, an index of swelling, and a stability evaluation. Samples of vitamin D infused marshmallows were prepared and given to participants in the human panel taste test, which evaluated mouthfeel and flavor. By analyzing dissolving behavior, the swelling index test revealed unexpected erosion. In addition, a temperature threshold for storage conditions was found through a temperature sensitivity test. All of these techniques assessed the feasibility and palatability of vitamin D supplementation with marshmallow flavor, offering insights into both the possible advantages and difficulties. The marshmallow infusion technique effectively covered up the disagreeable taste of vitamin D pills, leading to reviews that were overwhelmingly favorable (“Moderate Sweet”) and that indicated a pleasant mouthfeel. During the swelling index test, it showed erosion behavior, suggesting a certain kind of dissolution that is advantageous for nutritional absorption. Furthermore, the study discovered a temperature sensitivity threshold, highlighting how crucial proper storage conditions are.

Prevalence of vitamin D deficiency in exclusively breastfed infants at Charoenkrung Pracharak Hospital

BACKGROUND Vitamin D deficiency is a common problem in exclusively breastfed infants,with supplementation recommended by various international medical organizations.However,in Thailand,no advice for routine vitamin D supplementation is available.Thus,this study investigated the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency and its associated factors in exclusively breastfed infants in Bangkok,Thailand.AIM To investigated the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency and its associated factors in exclusively breastfed infants in Bangkok,Thailand.METHODS This descriptive observational cross-sectional study assessed 1094-month-old infants at Charoenkrung Pracharak Hospital from May 2020 to April 2021.The 25-OH vitamin D level of the infants was measured using an electrochemiluminescence binding assay.Vitamin D deficiency was defined as 25-OH level<20 ng/mL,with vitamin D insufficiency 20-30 ng/mL.The sun index and maternal vitamin D supplementation data were collected and analyzed using the independent t-test,univariate logistic regression,and multivariate logistic regression to identify the associated factors.RESULTS The prevalences of vitamin D deficiency and vitamin D insufficiency were 35.78%and 33.03%,respectively with mean serum 25-OH vitamin D levels in these two groups 14.37±3.36 and 24.44±3.29 ng/mL.Multivariate logistic regression showed that the main factors associated with vitamin D status were maternal vitamin D supplementation and birth weight,with crude odds ratios 0.26(0.08–0.82)and 0.08(0.01–0.45),respectively.The sun index showed no correlation with the 25-OH vitamin D level in exclusively breastfed infants(r=−0.002,P=0.984).CONCLUSION Two-thirds of healthy exclusively breastfed infants had hypovitaminosis D.Vitamin D supplementation prevented this condition and was recommended for both lactating women and their babies.

Impact of vitamin D on COVID-19 and other viral diseases

This editorial aims to elucidate the intricate relationship between vitamin D and viral pathogenesis.It explores the anticipated role of vitamin D as a modulator in the immune response against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2(SARS-CoV-2)and other viral pathogens.The editorial comments are based on the review article by Engin et al.The potential role of vitamin D in modulating immune responses has been highlighted by several studies,suggesting that it may influence both the risk and severity of infections.Vitamin D receptors are present in immunocompetent cells,which indicates that vitamin D can potentially modulate innate and adaptive immune responses.This context is relevant in the pathophysiology of coronavirus disease 2019(COVID-19),where the immune response to the virus can significantly impact the disease progression and outcome.The immunomodulatory effects of vitamin D can protect against SARSCoV-2 infection by enhancing innate and adaptive immune responses.It also maintains the integrity of the body's physical barriers and modulates inflammatory responses,thereby preventing entry and replication of the virus.Many studies have suggested that adequate vitamin D levels help alleviate morbidity and mortality associated with COVID-19.Furthermore,vitamin D supplementation has been linked with a lower risk of severe disease and mortality in COVID-19 patients,particularly in those with a deficiency during seasons with less sunlight exposure.

Carpel Tunnel Syndrome: A Link with Vitamin D, Body Mass Index and Hyperlipidemia

Introduction: Carbai tunnel syndrome [CTS] is compression of the median nerve at the wrist , this causes tingling in the hands, pain, numbness, tingling in the fingers particularly the thumb, index and middle fingers, loss of sensation in the hands and fingers, also weakness in the hands. The aim of the present study was to study a possible association which could be found between electrophysiological data in CTS, BMI, hyperlipidemia, and vitamin D [Vit D] levels. Methods: We used a sample of 40 females of the same age group, who were divided into Group 1 as a control consists of 18 healthy females and Group II consisted of 22 age matched females with clinical and electrophysiological evidence of CTS. We measured atherogenic index [AI] as a marker of hyperlipidemia, body mass index [BMI], Vit D status and electrophysiological tests of CTS. Results: Subjects with CTS had deficient Vit D status, they had significantly high atherogenic index (AI), and significant high BMI all compared to control Group I. Median sensory conduction velocity was significantly correlated negatively with BMI and atherogenic index, and positively correlated significantly with Vit D status. But median sensory and motor action potential latency were significantly correlated positively with BMI and atherogenic index, and negatively correlated significantly with Vit D status The analysis revealed BMI, atherogenic index and Vit D status as predictors of median nerve sensory and motor action potential latency and sensory nerve conduction velocity in CTS. Conclusion: The results of this study suggest that obesity and hyperlipidemia are potent CTS risk factors and declared the direct association between Vit D status and CTS occurrence. Our study supports the notion of the compensatory neuroprotective role of Vit D which could have a direct impact on the nerves integrity as it has an anti-inflammatory property which acts in relieving nervous insults and stress. .