Vitamin D in pediatric gastrointestinal disease. Issue 1 (February 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Ahlawat, Rajni; Weinstein, Toba; Pettei, Michael J.
• Is Part Of: Current opinion in pediatrics. Volume 29:Issue 1(2017:Feb.)
• Publication Date: 2017-02
• Subjects: celiac disease -- Crohn's disease -- pediatric inflammatory bowel disease -- ulcerative colitis -- vitamin D; Pediatrics -- Periodicals; Pediatrics -- Periodicals -- Bibliography -- Periodicals; 618.92
• DOI: 10.1097/MOP.0000000000000451
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1040-8703

Abstract

Abstract : Purpose of review: The purpose of this review is to examine the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency in pediatric gastrointestinal disease, specifically celiac disease and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD); to discuss the role of vitamin D and its deficiency in gastrointestinal disease pathophysiology; and to present current literature regarding diagnosis and treatment of vitamin D deficiency in these pediatric gastrointestinal diseases. Recent findings: Vitamin D deficiency is common in children with gastrointestinal symptoms and disease processes. In celiac disease, vitamin D status should be routinely assessed at the time of diagnosis and during subsequent follow up if deficient. There is growing evidence to suggest an inverse association between vitamin D and IBD activity; however, the therapeutic role of vitamin D in IBD patients requires further investigation. Summary: Suboptimal vitamin D status commonly occurs in children with gastrointestinal disease. It is advisable to check serum 25-hydroxy vitamin D levels in children with newly diagnosed celiac disease and IBD. In celiac disease, vitamin D status should be assessed during subsequent follow up if deficient. In IBD, 25-hydroxy vitamin D levels should be checked at least yearly. Therapy should be provided to maintain a level of greater than 30 ng/ml but less than 100 ng/ml; however, the ideal vitamin D dosing regimen to treat vitamin D deficiency and to maintain this optimum level remains unknown. The role of vitamin D as a therapeutic agent in IBD is still under investigation.