:: Volume 23, Issue 1 (4-2021) ::
2021, 23(1): 60-71 Back to browse issues page
Evaluation and Treatment of Vitamin D Deficiency in Iranian Adults: A Narrative Review
Mahnaz Sandoughi , Mahmoud Ali Kaykhaei
Department of Internal Medicine, Ali-Ebn e Abitaleb Hospital, Zahedan University of Medical Sciences, Zahedan, I.R. Iran , mazyar44@gmail.com
Abstract:   (2546 Views)
Vitamin D deficiency is a prevalent health problem all over the world. It is estimated that more than half of the Iranians are vitamin D deficient. Evidence has shown that adequate vitamin D levels are required for skeletal health through calcium and phosphorus homeostasis and play an essential regulatory role in extra-skeletal organs. However, there are several controversies and unanswered questions regarding diagnosis, evaluation, treatment, and even optimal serum levels of vitamin D. In this review study, we will discuss current evidence regarding the evaluation and treatment of vitamin D deficiency, emphasizing studies in the Iranian population. We also discuss how to achieve and maintain the optimum serum levels of vitamin D. This study concluded that according to the high prevalence of vitamin D deficiency in Iran, it is necessary to measure vitamin D serum levels in high-risk individuals. In the face of vitamin D deficiency, the initiation of treatment with a loading dose of vitamin D is recommended, followed by maintenance doses. Besides, malabsorption syndromes should be considered in people without increased serum levels despite the regular consumption of vitamin D. Moreover, calcitriol should not be used for the treatment of vitamin D deficiency in the general population.
Keywords: Vitamin D Deficiency, Ergocalciferol, Cholecalciferol, Diagnosis, Therapy
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Type of Study: Review | Subject: Endocrinology
Received: 2021/08/2 | Accepted: 2021/10/31 | Published: 2021/04/30


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Volume 23, Issue 1 (4-2021) Back to browse issues page