Vitamin D for Sepsis: Some Physiological Changes but No Clinical Benefit

In a randomized, placebo-controlled trial, a single dose of calcitriol was associated with increased mRNA expression of hCAP-18 and interleukin-10, but no clinical benefit was observed.

Observational studies among critically ill patients have shown strong associations between decreased 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25D) levels and adverse outcomes. The active metabolite of 25D, 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D (1,25D; calcitriol), has been shown to increase production of cathelicidin antimicrobial peptides including hCAP-18, as well as anti-inflammatory cytokines such as interleukin (IL)-10.

To test whether administration of 1,25D has beneficial effects on markers of immunity and inflammation in patients with severe sepsis or septic shock, investigators performed a double-blind study involving 67 such patients admitted to an intensive care unit (ICU). Participants were randomized to receive a single intravenous dose of calcitriol (2 µg) or p…

Reviewing Author

Neil M. Ampel, MD

Disclosures

Editorial BoardsUpToDate

Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesCoccidioidomycosis Study Group (Past President, Secretary, Treasurer)

Neil M. Ampel, MD

Disclosures

Editorial BoardsUpToDate

Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesCoccidioidomycosis Study Group (Past President, Secretary, Treasurer)

Vitamin D for Sepsis: Some Physiological Changes but No Clinical Benefit

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Reviewing Author