Vitamin D

Vitamin D (25-hydroxyvitamin D) is the main circulating form of vitamin D and is considered the most accurate marker for assessing overall vitamin D status. It reflects vitamin D obtained from sunlight exposure, diet, and supplementation. Vitamin D plays a vital role in calcium and phosphate balance, bone health, and muscle function.

Vitamin D deficiency can lead to bone-related conditions such as rickets in children and osteomalacia in adults. It is also associated with muscle weakness, increased risk of falls, and fractures.

Certain groups are at higher risk of deficiency, including individuals with limited sun exposure, those with darker skin tones, pregnant or breastfeeding women, young children, older adults, and people with malabsorption disorders such as coeliac disease or inflammatory bowel disease.

Testing is recommended in individuals with symptoms such as bone pain or muscle weakness, or in those with known risk factors for deficiency. Routine screening of the general population is not usually recommended.

The findings related to these particular clinical tests are a general guide and do not cover every possible scenario, this is because every patient is unique and these results only have true clinical significance when combined with the patient’s full medical history, a physical exam, and other diagnostic findings.

Phlebotomy service fee: £21.