Open AccessVitamin D Deficiency Is Prevalent in Girls and Women With Rett Syndrome
Author(s) -
Motil Kathleen J.,
Barrish Judy O.,
Lane Jane,
Geerts Suzanne P.,
Annese Fran,
McNair Lauren,
Percy Alan K.,
Skinner Steven A.,
Neul Jeffrey L.,
Glaze Daniel G.
Publication year - 2011
Publication title -
journal of pediatric gastroenterology and nutrition
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.206
H-Index - 131
eISSN - 1536-4801
pISSN - 0277-2116
DOI - 10.1097/mpg.0b013e3182267a66
Subject(s) - multivitamin , medicine , vitamin d and neurology , rett syndrome , parathyroid hormone , vitamin , vitamin d deficiency , pediatrics , physiology , endocrinology , calcium , biochemistry , chemistry , gene
Objectives: The aim of the study was to determine the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency and identify the relation between 25‐hydroxyvitamin D (25‐(OH)D) levels and the consumption of dietary sources of vitamin D or exposure to anticonvulsants in girls and women with Rett syndrome (RTT). Subjects and Methods: Retrospective review of the medical records of 284 girls and women with RTT to determine serum 25‐(OH)D and parathyroid hormone levels, nutritional status, dietary sources of vitamin D, exposure to anticonvulsants, degree of mobility, and MECP2 status. Results: Twenty percent of girls and women who were tested (n = 157) had 25‐(OH)D levels <50 nmol/L. Multivitamin supplements, vitamin D–fortified milk, and commercial formulas were consumed by 40%, 52%, and 54%, respectively. Anticonvulsants were used by 57%, and 39% ambulated independently. Median 25‐(OH)D levels were lower in individuals who did not receive multivitamin supplements ( P < 0.05) or commercial formulas ( P < 0.001) than in those who did. Median 25‐(OH)D levels differed ( P < 0.01) among racial and ethnic groups, but the number in some groups was small. Nutritional status, use of anticonvulsants, degree of mobility, and MECP2 status did not influence 25‐(OH)D levels. Conclusions: Vitamin D deficiency is prevalent in girls and women with RTT. The use of multivitamin supplements or commercial formulas is associated with improved vitamin D levels. Attention to vitamin D may enhance bone mineral deposition and reduce the frequency of bone fractures in these individuals.