Vitamin D Deficiency and Excess: Causes, Clinical Features, Diagnosis, and Management
Causes of Vitamin D Excess
Vitamin D excess, or hypervitaminosis D, results from excessive supplementation, underlying medical conditions, or high dietary intake. It leads to hypercalcemia, renal complications, and neurological symptoms.
Vitamin D Excess: Causes and Clinical Implications
Vitamin D plays a crucial role in calcium homeostasis and bone metabolism. However, excessive levels can lead to toxicity, known as hypervitaminosis D. This condition arises from unregulated intake of vitamin D supplements, certain medical disorders, and prolonged exposure to fortified foods.
Causes of Vitamin D Excess
1. Excessive Supplementation
Overuse of high-dose vitamin D supplements is the most common cause of toxicity.
2. Underlying Medical Conditions
Diseases such as sarcoidosis and tuberculosis can lead to excessive vitamin D levels due to granuloma-mediated conversion.
3. Dietary Intake
Though rare, excessive consumption of fortified foods may contribute to elevated vitamin D levels.
Clinical Features
Vitamin D toxicity can manifest as hypercalcemia, nephrocalcinosis, gastrointestinal disturbances, and neuropsychiatric symptoms.
Diagnosis and Management
Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels above 150 ng/mL confirm toxicity. Management includes discontinuing vitamin D supplementation, hydration therapy, and corticosteroid administration in severe cases.
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