Vitamin D Supplementation and Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

• Patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) are prone to hypovitaminosis D because of their photosensitivity. • Vitamin D has beneficial effects not only on bone metabolism but also on the function of the immune system. • Vitamin D levels depend on many variables, including sun exposure, age, ethnicity, body mass index, use of medications and supplements. • Patients with SLE avoid the sun because of photosensitive rashes and potential for disease flare, so adequate oral supplementation is critical. • In addition, to the traditional known metabolic activities, vitamin D has been shown to modulate the immune system, and its deficiency has been linked to the development of several autoimmune disorders including SLE. • The purpose of this review was to determine if vitamin D has an immunosuppressive effect and if it can suppress autoimmunity. • The findings indicated that repletion of vitamin D has benefits beyond bone health for patients with certain autoimmune disorders, such as SLE.https://commons.und.edu/pas-grad-posters/1081/thumbnail.jp