Vitamin D level among patients with unexplained musculoskeletal symptoms

Abstract

Background: Unexplained musculoskeletal (MSK) symptoms sometimes pose diagnostic and management challenges and can lead to prolonged suffering and disability. Hypovitaminosis D could be a reason for such symptoms. This study aimed to determine the vitamin D level among patients with unexplained MSK symptoms.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in a private clinic of Chattogram city, Bangladesh. A total of 110 unexplained MSK patients were enrolled conveniently. MSK symptoms were assessed by rheumatologist and serum vitamin D levels were measured according to the standard laboratory procedure. Descriptive and logistic regression analyses were done. Principal component analysis was performed for the reduction of MSK symptoms.

Results: The median (interquartile range) vitamin D level was 24.6 (20.0–29.0) ng/mL. Hypovitaminosis D (<30 ng/mL) was observed in 80.0% (95% CI: 71.3%–87.0%) respondents. Patients who had difficulty in climbing stairs, bone pain and muscle cramp had 79.8%, 84.9% and 79.8% hypovitaminosis D respectively. In logistic regression analysis, overweight defined by body mass index ≥25 kg/m² (OR 5.5, 95% CI 1.7–17.4) was significantly associated with hypovitaminosis D.

Conclusions: Hypovitaminosis D was common in patients with unexplained MSK symptoms and overweight was significantly associated with it. Further studies in representative samples are necessary.