Myopathy Associated with Vitamin D Deficiency

 

Clinical features:

(1) proximal muscle weakness

(2) myalgias

(3) reduction in muscle mass

(4) concurrent osteomalacia or osteoporosis may be present

(5) low serum levels of vitamin D (25-hydroxy vitamin D3)

(6) improved muscle strength and reduced disability with vitamin D therapy, although this may be masked by comorbid conditions

 

Elderly patients constitute a group at high risk for vitamin D deficiency myopathy:

(1) Vitamin D deficiency can occur for homebound patients with little exposure to sunlight.

(2) The myopathy is associated with an unsteady gait and an increased risk of falls.

(3) The patients often are also at risk for osteoporosis and osteoporotic fractures.