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[Hypervitaminosis D in institutionalized elderly in Buenos Aires]
L Plantalech1, P Knoblovits, E Cambiazzo
1Servicio de Endocrinología, Metabolismo y Medicina Nuclear, Instituto Agustin Rocca, Hospital Italiano de Buenos Aires, Argentina.
Medicina
|January 1, 1997
Summary
Vitamin D deficiency is common in the elderly, leading to bone loss and secondary hyperparathyroidism. Maintaining adequate vitamin D levels is crucial for preserving bone mass in older adults.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Endocrinology
- Bone Metabolism
Context:
- Elderly populations in nursing homes at 34 degrees S latitude.
- Studies on vitamin D deficiency often focus on areas with low solar irradiation.
- This study investigates vitamin D status in a community with potentially higher solar irradiation.
Purpose:
- To determine circulating vitamin D levels in elderly individuals.
- To explore the relationship between vitamin D levels and bone metabolism markers.
- To assess bone mineral density (BMD) in relation to vitamin D status.
Summary:
- Low serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) levels were prevalent (14.4 + 1.7 ng/ml), with 40.5% below 10 ng/ml.
- Evidence of secondary hyperparathyroidism (PTH: 169.4 + 30.9 pg/ml) and hypocalcemia (34.5%) was observed.
- Increased bone turnover was noted in those with vitamin D deficiency (hypovitaminosis D).
Impact:
- Serum 25(OH)D levels positively correlated with forearm bone mineral density (BMD R33% and RUD).
- Vitamin D deficiency was linked to increased parathyroid hormone (PTH) levels, indicating secondary hyperparathyroidism.
- These findings highlight the critical role of vitamin D in maintaining bone mass and preventing bone loss in the elderly.