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Cord blood vitamin D deficiency is associated with respiratory syncytial virus bronchiolitis

Mirjam E Belderbos1, Michiel L Houben, Berry Wilbrink

  • 1Department of Pediatrics, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht.

Pediatrics
|May 11, 2011
PubMed

Insights

Neonatal vitamin D deficiency significantly increases the risk of severe respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) lower respiratory tract infections (LRTI) in infants. Ensuring adequate vitamin D levels during pregnancy may help prevent infant RSV LRTI.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatrics
  • Immunology
  • Nutritional Science

Background:

  • Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a primary cause of severe lower respiratory tract infections (LRTI) in infants.
  • Emerging evidence suggests a protective role for vitamin D against RSV LRTI.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the association between cord blood vitamin D levels at birth and the subsequent risk of RSV LRTI in neonates.
  • To determine if vitamin D status at birth influences infant susceptibility to RSV infection.

Main Methods:

  • A prospective birth cohort study enrolled healthy term neonates.
  • Plasma 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25-OHD) concentrations were measured in cord blood.
  • RSV LRTI was diagnosed based on parent-reported symptoms and RSV RNA detection in the first year of life.

Main Results:

  • Lower cord blood 25-OHD concentrations were observed in neonates who developed RSV LRTI compared to those who did not (65 nmol/L vs. 84 nmol/L, P = .009).
  • Neonates with cord blood 25-OHD < 50 nmol/L had a sixfold increased risk of RSV LRTI compared to those with levels ≥ 75 nmol/L.
  • Low vitamin D levels at birth were strongly correlated with maternal vitamin D supplementation during pregnancy.

Conclusions:

  • Vitamin D deficiency at birth is linked to an elevated risk of RSV LRTI in the first year of life.
  • Increased routine vitamin D supplementation during pregnancy could be a viable strategy to prevent infant RSV LRTI.
Abstract

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