Persistent Vitamin D Deficiency in Pediatric Patients with Cystic Fibrosis

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Endocrinology
• Pulmonology
• Nutritional Science

Background:

• Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is a genetic disorder impacting multiple systems.
• Vitamin D deficiency is prevalent in CF patients despite supplementation protocols.
• Low vitamin D levels correlate with increased respiratory infections and pulmonary exacerbations in CF.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency in pediatric CF patients.
• To analyze the relationship between vitamin D supplementation dosage and serum vitamin D levels.
• To identify optimal vitamin D intake levels for this population.

Main Methods:

• Cross-sectional analytical study design.
• Inclusion of 48 pediatric CF patients.
• Collection of serum vitamin D levels, vitamin D intake, and pancreatic enzyme dosage data.

Main Results:

• 41.7% had normal vitamin D levels, 31.3% insufficiency, and 27% deficiency.
• Median vitamin D intake was 2050 IU.
• A daily intake >2000 IU showed a statistically significant difference in vitamin D levels; only 10% achieved >30 ng/mL with lower doses.

Conclusions:

• Vitamin D deficiency/insufficiency is a persistent issue in pediatric CF.
• Current supplementation schedules may require refinement.
• A daily dose of 2000 IU of vitamin D is suggested as an effective starting point for supplementation.