Vitamin D

The Vitamin D Test quantitates 25-hydroxyvitamin D2 and 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 metabolites. The metabolite 25-hydroxyvitamin D is the major circulating form of Vitamin D in the body and the best indicator of a patient’s true vitamin status. This is the serum version of the test. It is also available as a blood spot test.

Ordering the Vitamin D Test From Great Plains Laboratory

A vitamin D test measures the level of vitamin D in the blood. This vitamin is essential for healthy bones and teeth as its biological function is to maintain normal calcium and phosphorus absorption levels. It also helps keep nerves, muscles, and the immune system working properly.

Low vitamin D levels can lead to bone disorders and other medical issues.

Vitamin D can be obtained in three ways.

• The body produces vitamin D when bare skin is exposed to sunlight
• Vitamin D can also be absorbed from certain foods
• Vitamin D supplements can increase the levels in the blood
  

There are 2 Different Types of Vitamin D Tests:

Both forms of vitamin D (ergocalciferol and cholecalciferol) work similarly in the body.

• Most vitamin D tests measure the level of 25(OH)D in the blood. 25 hydroxy vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) is the vitamin D the body produces or absorbs from an animal source or a cholecalciferol supplement.
• 25 hydroxy vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol) can be measured. This vitamin D is absorbed from foods fortified with plant vitamin D or an ergocalciferol supplement.
  

Vitamin D Levels

Which Patients is the Vitamin D Test Best Used For?

A vitamin D test is used to screen for vitamin D levels in the blood. If the levels are low, an individual can be treated with supplements before it causes health disorders.

Those who are at high risk of having low levels of vitamin D include:

• Lack of skin exposure to sunlight
• Older adults
• People with obesity
• Babies who are breastfed only (formula is usually fortified with vitamin D)
• People who have had gastric bypass surgery
• People who have a disease that affects the intestines and makes it difficult for the body to absorb nutrients, such as Crohn’s disease
• Lack of enough vitamin D in the diet
• Liver and kidney disorders
• Use of certain medications