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Low 25-Hydroxyvitamin D Levels in Children with Spina Bifida

Lynnette J Mazur1, Lisa D Wilsford1, Laura Rosas1

  • 1From the University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, Shriners Hospital for Children, Houston, Texas, and the University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, Indiana.

Southern Medical Journal
|January 8, 2016
PubMed

Insights

Most children with spina bifida (SB) have low vitamin D levels, even with sun exposure. Routine vitamin D testing and supplementation are recommended for this population.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatrics
  • Endocrinology
  • Nutritional Science

Background:

  • Spina bifida (SB) is a complex congenital condition.
  • Vitamin D is crucial for bone health and immune function.
  • Children with SB may have unique nutritional needs and risks for vitamin D deficiency.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To assess vitamin D status in pediatric patients with spina bifida (SB).
  • To identify factors associated with vitamin D levels in this cohort.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective chart review of 38 SB patients at Shriners Hospital for Children, Houston.
  • Data collected included demographics, lifestyle factors (screen time, outdoor time, milk/vitamin intake), and serum vitamin D levels.

Main Results:

  • 81% of children with SB had insufficient or deficient vitamin D levels (mean 58.8 nmol/L).
  • African American and Hispanic descent were associated with lower vitamin D levels (P=0.017).
  • Daily vitamin D supplementation correlated with higher vitamin D levels (P=0.046).

Conclusions:

  • The majority of children with SB exhibit suboptimal vitamin D levels.
  • Even in sunny climates with outdoor activity, deficiency is prevalent.
  • Routine vitamin D monitoring and supplementation are advised for children with SB.
Abstract

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