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The link between vitamin D deficiency and systemic lupus erythematosus

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Abstract

Vitamin D deficiency is highly prevalent and is increasingly thought to be an important risk factor in many diseases that have high morbidity and mortality, including lupus. Vitamin D is an immunomodulatory hormone with effects on T cells, B cells, and dendritic cells. Animal models of autoimmune disease and epidemiologic studies suggest a role for vitamin D as a modifiable environmental factor in autoimmune disease. Recommendations are available regarding screening for and repletion of vitamin D deficiency. More research is needed to understand the role of vitamin D as an immunomodulator and to determine the optimal range of serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D for musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, and immune health.

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  1. Division of Rheumatology, Medical University of South Carolina, 96 Jonathan Lucas Street, Suite 912, Charleston, SC, 29425, USA

    Diane L. Kamen

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  1. Diane L. Kamen
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  2. Cynthia Aranow
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Correspondence to Diane L. Kamen.

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Kamen, D.L., Aranow, C. The link between vitamin D deficiency and systemic lupus erythematosus. Curr Rheumatol Rep 10, 273–280 (2008). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11926-008-0044-3

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