Vitamin D, 25-Hydroxy

The Vitamin D 25-Hydroxy Blood Test is often ordered for individuals that have symptoms of vitamin D deficiency. It may also be ordered before an individual begins osteoporosis drug therapy. Low levels may indicate a dietary deficiency, mal-absorption or lack of exposure to sunlight. Who should test? Vitamin D is clinically useful to diagnose disorders related to intestinal malabsorption and vitamin D deficiency or intoxication. The 25-Hydroxy vitamin D blood test allows monitoring for therapeutic response in patients being treated for vitamin D-related disorders. The body gets vitamin D from two sources: dietary intake through foods and supplements (exogenous), and through production in the skin upon exposure to sunlight (endogenous). Although vitamin D is found naturally in only a few foods, in the United States, many products are supplemented with it, including milk, breakfast cereals and juices. Those at risk of vitamin D deficiency include individuals who are elderly; obese; hav