Vitamin D 25 Hydroxy Test

Vitamin D Blood test (25-hydroxyvitamin D)

Vitamin D is a vital vitamin for our body that promotes calcium and phosphorus absorption; it keeps bones, teeth, and muscles healthy. It protects against osteocalcin and osteoporosis. Vitamin D blood test helps to measure the level of vitamin D in the body. The most common vitamin D test is the 25-hydroxyvitamin D, known as 25(OH) Vitamin D

Taking a Vitamin D test is an important aspect of maintaining optimal health as it helps identify any deficiencies in your body. Vitamin D test costs may vary depending on the location.

When is the Vitamin D test done?

A doctor may advise this test

• To monitor the functioning of the parathyroid gland, the Parathyroid hormone activates Vitamin D.

• Screen the people who are at high risk of deficiency.

• In patients having an abnormal level of calcium, and phosphorus.

• Evidence of bone disease or bone weakness

• Before starting the drug treatment for osteoporosis

• Patients suffering from cystic fibrosis, Crohn's disease

What are the components of the Vitamin D test?

The main component checked in this test is Vitamin D.  Two forms of this vitamin can be measured

• 25-hydroxyvitamin D

• 1,25-dihydroxy vitamin D. 

The 25-hydroxyvitamin D is the primary form of vitamin D in the blood and is considered the best indicator of Vitamin D's nutritional status. Vitamin D is influenced by exposure to sunlight, skin pigmentation, sunscreen use, and hepatic function. The assay measures both vitamin D2 and D3 metabolites of vitamin D.

Procedure and Prerequisites

No special preparation is required. Blood is collected from the vein.

Reference Range

Decreased level indicates-

• Inadequate exposure to sunlight

• Dietary deficiency

• Vitamin D malabsorption