Vitamin D Levels refer to the measurable concentration of 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) in the blood serum, which is the primary clinical indicator of a patient’s overall vitamin D status. Maintaining optimal levels is crucial for calcium and phosphate homeostasis, bone health, and a wide array of non-skeletal functions, including immune modulation and hormonal balance. Clinical practice uses these levels to diagnose deficiency, insufficiency, or toxicity and to guide appropriate supplementation.
Origin
The term derives from the classification of Vitamin D as a fat-soluble vitamin and its subsequent discovery and recognition as a critical pro-hormone. The measurement of 25(OH)D became the standard clinical metric because it reflects both dietary intake and sun exposure and has a long circulating half-life.
Mechanism
Vitamin D, whether synthesized in the skin or ingested, is first hydroxylated in the liver to form 25(OH)D. This inactive form is then transported to the kidneys, where it undergoes a second hydroxylation catalyzed by the 1-alpha-hydroxylase enzyme to form the biologically active hormone, 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D. This active form then binds to the Vitamin D Receptor (VDR) to regulate gene expression in target tissues, controlling calcium absorption and bone mineralization.
Bone health monitoring during hormone therapy involves precise DEXA scans, biochemical markers, and hormonal assessments to ensure skeletal integrity and vitality.
We use cookies to personalize content and marketing, and to analyze our traffic. This helps us maintain the quality of our free resources. manage your preferences below.
Detailed Cookie Preferences
This helps support our free resources through personalized marketing efforts and promotions.
Analytics cookies help us understand how visitors interact with our website, improving user experience and website performance.
Personalization cookies enable us to customize the content and features of our site based on your interactions, offering a more tailored experience.