Vitamin D

Why test for Vitamin D at Symbion VIP Diagnostics, Ahmedabad ?

Vitamin D is also known as Ergocalciferol (Vitamin D2); Cholecalciferol (Vitamin D3); Calcidiol (25-hydroxyvitamin D[25(OH)D]); Calcifidiol (25-hydroxy-vitamin D); Calcitriol (1,25 dihydroxy-vitamin D [1,25(OH)(2)D]); 25-hydroxyvitamin D; 1,25 dihydroxyvitamin D

Vitamin D level is frequently checked in Pathology Lab along with some of the other tests such as  Calcium; Phosphorus; PTH; Magnesium; Bone Markers; Trace Minerals

The lab test for Vitamin D level is useful to determine if you have a vitamin D deficiency; if you are receiving vitamin D supplementation, to determine if it is adequate.

Your health care provider may have ordered a vitamin D test if you have symptoms of a vitamin D deficiency (not enough vitamin D). These symptoms include:

• Bone weakness
• Bone softness
• Bone malformation (in children)
• Fractures

The test may be ordered if you are at a higher risk for a vitamin D deficiency. Risk factors include:

• Osteoporosis or other bone disorder
• Previous gastric bypass surgery
• Age; vitamin D deficiency is more common in older adults.
• Obesity
• Lack of exposure to sunlight
• Having a darker complexion
• Difficulty absorbing fat in your diet

In addition, breastfed babies may be at a higher risk if they aren't taking vitamin D supplements.

If your results show a deficiency in vitamin D, it may mean you are:

• Not getting enough exposure to sunlight
• Not getting enough vitamin D in your diet
• Having trouble absorbing vitamin D in your food

A low result may also mean your body is having trouble using the vitamin as it should, and may indicate kidney or liver disease.

If your results show you have an excess of (too much) vitamin D, it is most likely due to taking too many vitamin pills or other supplements. Too much vitamin D can cause damage to your organs and blood vessels.

To learn what your results mean, talk to your health care provider.