Association Between Serum 25-Hydroxyvitamin D Level and Pulmonary Exacerbations in Cystic Fibrosis

ObjectiveTo identify effects of vitamin D status, as defined by circulating 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25-OHD) levels on the annual frequency of pulmonary exacerbations (Pex) and hospitalizations, on standard measures of pulmonary function, and to identify determinants of 25-OHD levels in pediatric patients with cystic fibrosis (CF). HypothesisHigher levels of serum 25-OHD would be associated with fewer Pex and hospitalizations, and improved lung function based on pulmonary function tests (PFTs). Study designRetrospective chart review of 53 pediatric patients from January 2011 to December 2011. Significant relationships were examined using linear and logistic regression analyses. Patient SelectionPatients ages 5 through 22 years followed at the CF Care Center and Clinic at Yale-New Haven Hospital, New Haven, CT., who had at least four clinic visits and at least one 25-OHD measurement between January 1, 2011 and December 31, 2011. ResultsSerum 25-OHD level and gender were strong independent determinants of the annual number of Pex (P<0.01, with lower 25-OHD level and female gender associated with Pex). There was a significant influence of gender (P<0.05) and a near-significant influence of serum 25-OHD (P<0.08) on hospitalization rate. There was no effect of 25-OHD levels on PFTs. Other candidate factors (age, season, gender, pancreatic sufficiency, or severity of genetic mutation) did not significantly effect 25-OHD level. ConclusionsThe annual number of Pex in pediatric CF patients is significantly associated with 25-OHD levels and gender, raising the consideration that maintaining vitamin D sufficiency may lead to decreased incidence of Pex and hospitalizations requiring antibiotic therapy. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2015; 50:441-446. (c) 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.