Serum Levels of 25-Hydroxy Vitamin D in Patients with Hepatitis C Compared with Control Group

Some studies suggest that besides the known effects of vitamin D on calcium hemostasis and bone safety, it might also play a non-classic role in our body such as in chronic hepatic disorders. So, considering the high prevalence of vitamin D deficiency and HCV in our society, the aim of this study was to evaluate serum levels of vitamin D in HCV patients compared to a control group.
In this case-control study, 60 HCV patients and 60 healthy pupils were selected and serum level of vitamin D was measured and compared between the two groups.
Findings: The mean serum level of Vitamin D in the case and control group was 26.23 ± 18.53 and 29.6 ± 13.61, respectively and no statistical difference was reported between the two groups (P = 0.260). Vitamin D insufficiency was found in 3 patients (5.0%) in the case group and none of the control group. Vitamin D deficiency was found in 43(71.7%) of the case group but only 6 (10.0%) of the control group and this difference between the two group was statistically significant (P = 0.033).
According to the results of this study, vitamin D deficiency in HCV patients was higher than the normal population and high prevalence of vitamin D deficiency can affect other organs and decrease the quality of HCV treatment. Thus, measuring the serum levels of vitamin D in HCV patients and prescribing vitamin D supplements are recommended.