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Vitamin D Supplementation Could Possibly Improve Clinical Outcomes of Patients Infected with Coronavirus-2019 (COVID-2019)

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... One author conducted a retrospective multicentre study of 212 cases with laboratory-confirmed infection of SARS-CoV-2 [137]. «Data pertaining to clinical features and serum 25(OH)D levels were extracted from the medical records. ...
... Vitamin D status was significantly associated with clinical outcomes. The results suggest that an increase in serum 25(OH)D level in the body could either improve clinical outcomes or mitigate worst (severe to critical) outcomes, while a decrease in serum 25(OH)D level in the body could worsen clinical outcomes of COVID-19 patients» [137]. ...
... From the public health aspect, the recommendation of intensive supplementation as possible prophylaxis also could be considered» [126]. Similar recommendations are made by other authors [124,129,130,136,137,139,[142][143][144][145][146][147][148][149][150][151][152][153][154][155][156][157]. One author states: «Although Vitamin D overdoses are theoretically possible, they are highly improbable» [144]. ...
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Introduction: When the first report appeared of a protective effect of universal BCG vaccination on COVID- 19 morbidity and case fatality rates, as well as referring to previous papers on the nonspecific protective effects of BCG, our interest was raised, because Mozambique was in an unusual position in relation to BCG vaccination. Based on our knowledge of the history of global public health, we constructed a table with the number of cases of COVID-19 per 100,000 inhabitants and the case fatality rate of the countries that had carried out universal BCG vaccination for a long period (India, Japan and the ex-USSR countries), compared to countries without a universal BCG vaccination programme. We found that countries that had carried out universal BCG vaccination for a long period had much lower case/population ratios and case fatality rates than those without a universal BCG vaccination programme. This exercise was repeated three times, during the month of April, with consistent results. These results made us take the decision to undertake a study of possible confounding factors Mozambique became independent in June 1975, and immediately after carried out a mass vaccination campaign with the six antigens of the recently created EPI. Smallpox vaccine was added, in order to consolidate smallpox eradication. WHO, at that time, was against vaccination campaigns, but an exceptional agreement was obtained. The campaign took place from the north to the south of the country, from February 1976 to January 1978. Every province started a routine EPI programme as soon as the campaign finished. In the campaign, all children 15 years old or younger received BCG vaccine. The coverage rate in the campaign was 97%, with 99% in the capital city of Maputo. Subsequently, the coverage rate of BCG vaccination at birth in the EPI has been always remarkably high in urban areas. In rural areas, coverage has been irregular, but has been at least 80% in the past 25 years. Therefore, most of the urban population aged 58 or less has received BCG, and so has an important part of the rural population. Such a high coverage of BCG is exceedingly rare in the world.
... Ugyanakkor a szerző maga is megállapítja, hogy a kapott eredményt csak előtanulmánynak tekinthetjük, a feltételezést csak nagyobb elemszámú, randomizált, kontrollcsoportos klinikai vizsgálat tudná igazolni. 11 A fenti adatok statisztikai eredményeire hivatkozva javasolták az egészségpolitikai döntéshozóknak megfontolásra a szérum-D-vitamin-szint meghatározásának bevezetését mint lehetséges rutinmódszert a COVID-19 lefolyásának és kimenetelének megjóslására. A feltételezésük alapján az egyéb terápiák kiegészítéseként alkalmazva a szérum D-vitamin-szintjének emelését, javítható lenne a betegség kimenetele, valamint csökkenthető a súlyos klinikai és kritikus állapotú betegek száma. ...
... A feltételezésük alapján az egyéb terápiák kiegészítéseként alkalmazva a szérum D-vitamin-szintjének emelését, javítható lenne a betegség kimenetele, valamint csökkenthető a súlyos klinikai és kritikus állapotú betegek száma. 11 Az American Society for Bone and Mineral Research (ASBMR) 2020. szeptemberi, virtuális kongresszusán Gennari által interpretált, de még nem publikált eredmények is pozitív kapcsolatot feltételeznek a fertőzés lefolyása és a beteg D-vitamin-státusza között. ...
... COVID-19 lefolyása és a klinikai tünetegyüttes alapján meghatározott súlyossági csoportok. A betegek D-vitamin-ellátottságának csoportjai: normál (25(OH)D >30 ng/ ml); elégtelen (21-29 ng/ml); deficiens (<20 ng/ml)Alipio (2020) adatai alapján11 vitamin-ellátottság függvényében kb.1,63-szoros (OR: 0,61, p=0,007) az esélye annak, hogy az átlagos lefolyású betegség helyett enyhe lefolyású legyen a fertőzés. ...
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A SARS-CoV-2-világjárvány újabb fellángolásával egyre több közlemény jelenik meg világszerte a súlyos esetek kezeléséről és megelőzéséről, ugyanakkor a COVID-19 patológiáját ma már sokkal összetettebbnek lát-juk, mint eleinte. Számos adat szól a D-vitamin feltételezett szerepe mellett. Ezek főleg a klinikailag is igazolt immunológiai hatásokra hivatkoznak a citokinek és a T reg sejtek szabályozásában és a gyulladás során a káros T-sejt-funkciók, illetve a túlzott immunválasz gátlásában. De az elméleti megfontolások, a retrospektív vizsgálatok és az eddig összegyűlt klinikai eredmények alapján kimondhatjuk-e, hogy a D-vitamin-hiány rendezése pozitívan befolyásolhatja a COVID-19 kimenetelét? A COVID-19 pandémia közel egy éve alatt a D-vitamin lehetséges kedvező hatásaival foglalkozó tanulmányok és elem-zések célja elsősorban annak megállapítása volt, hogy általában a D-vitamin-hiánynak lehet-e szerepe a COVID-19 betegség lefo-lyásában, illetve a betegség terjedésében vagy a megelőzésében. Másrészt, arra ke-resnek evidenciákat, hogy a D 3-vitamin-szupplementáció befolyásolhatja-e a súlyos, intenzív kezelést igénylő, vagy kritikus álla-potok kialakulását, illetve lehet-e preventív szerepe a fertőzés terjedésének megelőzé-sében. A legtöbb megjelent retrospektív COVID-elemzés külön figyelmet fordít az egyes kockázati csoportokra, keresve azokat a jelzéseket, melyek a SARS-COV-2-fertőzés súlyosabb kórlefolyására és nagyobb mor-talitására utaló paraméterekre hívhatják fel a figyelmet. Az egyik ilyen feltételezhető faktor az alacsony D-vitamin-ellátottságot jelző 25(OH)D-szint. Írországban egy, a D-vitamin-kutatást (is) célzó adatbázis alapján készült tanul-mányban (TILDA 2020) kimutatták, hogy a D-vitamin-hiány nemcsak az időseb-bek és a férfiak között gyakoribb, hanem a túlsúlyosak, a diabeteses betegek, a ma-gasvérnyomás-betegségben szenvedők körében is, és különösen gyakori az idős-otthonokban élők között. 1 A COVID-19 be-tegség során a nagyobb kockázatú egyé-neknél gyakrabban kialakuló citokinvihar
... Consequently, it has been proposed that vitamin D may influence the immune response by lowering the mRNA levels of the influenza M protein. Alipio (2020) further indicated that vitamin D supplementation could potentially enhance the clinical outcomes for patients infected with COVID-19, as evidenced by an increased odds ratio for experiencing a mild outcome with higher serum (OH) D levels [94]. A team of researchers has noted that a deficiency in vitamin D may lead to the overactivation of the pulmonary renin-angiotensin system (RAS), which could play a role in the onset of respiratory syndromes. ...
... Consequently, it has been proposed that vitamin D may influence the immune response by lowering the mRNA levels of the influenza M protein. Alipio (2020) further indicated that vitamin D supplementation could potentially enhance the clinical outcomes for patients infected with COVID-19, as evidenced by an increased odds ratio for experiencing a mild outcome with higher serum (OH) D levels [94]. A team of researchers has noted that a deficiency in vitamin D may lead to the overactivation of the pulmonary renin-angiotensin system (RAS), which could play a role in the onset of respiratory syndromes. ...
Article
The COVID-19 epidemic in recent years has been produced by various coronavirus strains that nearly destroyed world health policies and economics. Emerging viral strains exacerbated the pandemic. Huge investments have been made in preventative vaccines to combat the disease, but the genetic instability of these viruses has hampered their usefulness. However, in addition to traditional therapeutic approaches, nutraceuticals have been considered effica-cious in preventing and or treating COVID-19 and post-COVID syndrome. In this context, nutraceuticals such as vitamins or dietary supplements including multiple vitamins and minerals and propolis have been widely studied for their significant impact on viral respiratory diseases like SARS-CoV-2 and COVID-19. Some of these nutraceuticals having antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immune-modulatory properties have been highly recommended for use as an adjunct option to moderate the adverse effects associated with the COVID-19 pandemic. In this review, we intend to present the recent understanding and converse scientific implications for the use of nutraceutical antioxidants such as vitamins, minerals, probiotics, and polyphenols like bee propolis, in the management of viral respiratory diseases and post-COVID-19 syndrome. Future challenges and limitations regarding the use and bioavailability of these ingredients , and dose-response studies are further emphasized.
... Daha önce yapılan çalışmalar D vitamini ve viral temelli solunum yolları enfeksiyonları arasındaki ilişkiyi araştırmış, D vitamini eksikliği tedavisinin viral enfeksiyonları engelleyebildiği ve antiinflamatuvar ve immün sistemi uyarıcı şekilde antiviral özellik gösterdiğini ortaya koymuştur (5,6). D vitamini eksikliği ile ilişkilendirilen bir diğer viral enfeksiyon ise son iki yıldır dünya genelini pandemi düzeyinde etkileyen Koronavirüs Hastalığı 2019 (COVID-19) enfeksiyonudur (7,8). ...
... Güney Asya' da 212 COVID-19 vakasının incelendiği bir çalışmada, D vitamini eksikliği ile bu vakaların kötü klinik sonuçları arasında anlamlı bir ilişki olduğu bildirilmiştir (7). Vitamin eksikliğinin artmasıyla hastalığın şiddetinin de doğru orantılı arttığı ortaya konmuştur. ...
... A number of studies have reported impaired attention [8,9] and executive functions, apathy [3]. According to O. Del Brutto et al. [1], cognitive decline was noted in patients with mild symptomatic COVID-19. This study is unique in that it prospectively assessed changes in cognitive function before and after the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in individuals infected or not infected with SARS-CoV-2. ...
... This study is unique in that it prospectively assessed changes in cognitive function before and after the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in individuals infected or not infected with SARS-CoV-2. In a multivariate analysis, the likelihood of developing cognitive decline was significantly higher in the SARS-CoV-2 virus seropositive group compared to seronegative individuals [1]. A comparison of 93 asymptomatic COVID-19 patients with 102 comparison patients showed that asymptomatic COVID-19 patients had a lower Montreal Cognitive Assessment score. ...
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This article discusses the importance of endothelial dysfunction in patients with COVID-19 due to chronic heart failure and the effectiveness of its treatment.
... [54] A variety of studies have shown that beside the beneficial effects of vitamin D on skeletal health and infectious disease, vitamin D deficiency has been linked to exacerbation of various NCDs, notably cardiovascular diseases and diabetes, as well as their predisposing factors, such as obesity and insulin resistance. [55,56] Beside the benefits of vitamin D in skeletal health and infectious disease protection, obesity and insulin resistance brought by vitamin D deficiency, may exerts a synergistic challenge added to the burden of NCDs. People in quarantine or self-isolation should, therefore, reasonably expose themselves to the sunlight daily (if feasible), and, in any case, consider the intake of vitamin D, either dietary or supplement. ...
... [59,60] Tobacco use is a potential cause for the four major NCDs, putting people with these diseases at a higher risk of developing chronic infection if infected with COVID-19. [56] A research in Turkey evaluated the impact of COVID-19 pandemic on smoking addiction found that 53.6 percent of participants continued smoking at the same level during the pandemic, while individuals with low addiction level before the pandemic have increased to 17.6 and 29.4% at moderate and high levels during the pandemic, respectively. [61] In contrary, a study in China found that the total rate of alcohol and smoking have increased only slightly during the COVID-19 pandemic from 31.3 to 32.7% for drinking and 12.8% to 13.6% for smoking. ...
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COVID‑19 pandemic, with its subsequent lockdown and mobility restriction is a public health emergency that has obliged substantial modifications in daily routines and lifestyle of people worldwide. The drastic measures of social isolation and home confinement has impacted to a great extent the physical and psychological health. The resultant abrupt in lifestyle‑related behavior such as physical inactivity, unhealthy dietary habit, sleep disturbance, stress, tobacco use, and alcohol intake, is directly linked to the rising global burden of non‑communicable disease. This review aims at gaining a rich and extensive understanding of the potential negative impact triggered by COVID‑19 on lifestyle‑related behaviors that will influence long‑term physical and mental wellbeing. Electronic database search was conducted on PubMed, ScienceDirect, Google Scholar, and Scopus from January 1, 2020 to March 15, 2021. Data related to COVID‑19 impact on lifestyle habits were extracted from these studies. Articles were included if meeting the inclusion criteria (i.e., assessed the impact of COVID‑19 on physical inactivity and sedentary behavior, dietary habits, sleep, mental health, vitamin D, and substance use among adults. Further search was conducted to address these behavioral changes among athletes. While physical isolation is a necessary public health measure to protect the population, outcomes of this review indicate that in light of adverse lifestyle changes brought by the pandemic, noncommunicable disease remains a critical concern. Hence, adopting healthy lifestyle behavior is essentially important especially during the current time to boost immunity and reduce the risk of COVID‑19 infection. Recognizing the pandemic collateral effects offers a forward‑looking perspective to guide the government and health authorities in planning prevention and control programs that focus on resilient and sustainable behavioral change.
... A large body of evidence has shown the link of vitamin D deficiency with poor disease outcomes and lower Covid-19 incidence (29)(30). ...
Article
Background: In 2019, the first cases of an acute respiratory infectious disease were announced in the city of Wuhan, China. In places where the speed of transmission and the resulting high prevalence and death from this virus is high, it is important to find things that help prevent and reduce the symptoms and complications of the disease, one of these things. Things are serum levels of vitamin D. As a result of this study, serum levels of vitamin D were measured in patients with Covid-19. Methods: From December to March of 1400, 100 samples of people hospitalized in Khurshid laboratory were examined to identify the RNA of the Covid-19 virus by Real Time PCR method and at the same time to check the serum levels of vitamin D. The data was statistically analyzed using SPSS software. Results: The average age of the patients was between 12.45 and 40.8 years. Comparison the two Covid-19 positive and negative groups in terms of symptoms, it was found that the patients with RH positive had more positive PCR percentage and a significant difference was reported between RH positive and Covid-19 (p=0.006). In comparing the relationship between disease symptoms and the rate of PCR positive reports of gastrointestinal symptoms, history of significant disease, cough, fever, a significant difference was reported (p<0.001). Also, 50% of the samples were PCR positive. Based on the t-test, a significant difference was reported between the serum levels of vitamin D and Covid-19 (p<0.001). Conclusion: The results showed that the vitamin D is an acceptable protective factor against Covid19 infection and its deficiency increases the probability of infection.
... The effect of high vitamin D levels in respiratory infections has been studied in several observational epidemiology studies and randomized controlled trials. According to a recent study, supplementing with vitamin D could help lessen the likelihood and severity of COVID-19 (Alipio, 2020). A recent randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical research found that vitamin D did not reduce hospital length of stay or disease severity (Taha et al., 2021). ...
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Background: The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-COV2) viruses using angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptors, to enter human cells, these receptors are highly expressed in the lung alveolar cells, vascular endothelium, cardiac myocytes, and other cells. Inadequate vitamin D levels in the blood have been linked to a higher risk of COVID-19 severity. Objective: To determine the association between Vitamin D level and severity of COVID-19 infection. Materials and Method: A cross sectional study was conducted at Thumbay Hospital, Ajman, UAE. Enrolled 70 COVID-19 positive hospitalized patients with age group ≥ 18 years old of both genders. Patients taking vitamin D supplements were excluded from the study. The biochemical analysis for the collected blood samples was performed on the automated analyzer and assessed for significance analysis. Result: There is a statistically significant correlation between Vitamin D levels and disease severity (p < 0.05) as determined by Pearson's Chi-square test. Independent t-test shown that there is a statistically significant difference with regards to gender, age groups, and co morbidity (p < 0.05). Pearson's correlation revealed a moderate, positive correlation between Vitamin D levels and the severity of COVID-19 infection, which was statistically significant. Conclusion: Vitamin D levels affect COVID-19 severity, with more severe cases showing vitamin D levels lower than normal when compared to severe cases with sufficient vitamin D levels. Furthermore, blood vitamin D levels are linked to age groups in COVID-19 patients. Vitamin D insufficiency and deficiency, on the other hand, was not linked to a higher risk of death prognosis, and co morbidities.
... A meta-analysis and systematic review suggested micronutrient deficiency, i.e., vitamin D3, is associated with the progression of COVID-19 disease. The elderly people with Vitamin D3 deficiency are especially likely to get severe symptoms of COVID-19 [66]. Similarly, the lower levels of vitamin D3, found in this study, could cause severe illness in people with lower immunity. ...
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The outburst of the immensely communicable COVID-19 has proposed a consequential challenge to the world’s health, particularly for those who are already countering any disease and are thus immunocompromised. COVID-19 uses human ACE2 (angiotensin-converting enzyme 2), an epithelial cell of the lungs with receptors, to gain entry into human cells, which is the first step of viral infection. In this study, we have evaluated the levels of ACE2 in serum and its gene expression to confirm that high ACE2 levels and its gene polymorphism could be risk factors for COVID-19, or those patients, who were COVID-positive and immunocompromised, have more ACE2 levels in comparison to non-COVID-patients with same population. Secondly, we assessed the levels of micronutrients, which showed the risk factors for COVID-19. Our data revealed that the gene expression of the ACE2 enzyme and its genotype G8790A polymorphism are associated with the progression of the disease. The levels of micronutrients were also found to be linked with COVID-19 progression in immunocompromised patients. The findings of the study have suggested that if levels of ACE2 enzyme and micronutrients are controlled, then the progression of the disease can be decreased.
... An observational study reported that 38 ng/ml was appropriate for reducing the risk of acute viral respiratory infections [32]. It was explained that vitamin D supplementation improves the clinical conditions of patients with COVID-19 based on an increased serum vitamin D level, while serum vitamin D decreases with worse clinical development [37]. ...
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To increase the success in Covid-19 treatment, many drug suggestions are presented, and some clinical studies are shared in the literature. There have been some attempts to use some of these drugs in combination. However, using more than one drug together may cause serious side effects on patients. Therefore, detecting drug-drug interactions of the drugs used will be of great importance in the treatment of Covid-19. In this study, some vital drugs and supplements used for Covid-19 treatment with their mechanism of actions and possible adverse/side effects shed a light about their safety and efficacy level. Moreover, some of these drugs are used together in Covid-19 treatment for better outcome of treatment, thus the side effects caused by using these drugs together are shared. In this review, it is aimed to facilitate the selection of proper drugs by the physicians and increase the success rate of Covid-19 treatment according to the targeted patient.
... The University of Cincinnati Health system supports these study results by conducting their own study where they found a significant association between COVID-19 related serious illnesses with Vitamin D deficiency [25]. A study revealed that reduce Vitamin D levels would impair the clinical outcome of COVID-19 patients and raise Vitamin D improved clinical outcomes of the patients [26]. Furthermore, as documented in the New York study, COVID-19 patients treated with high doses of Vitamin D where only one patient needed ICU support and the rest of the patients took only standard management [27]. ...
... [10] It has been observed that the serum vitamin D level is lower in COVID-19 positive patients than in negative patients. [10,11] Studies in different European countries [12][13][14] show that there is a relationship between the increasing number of COVID-19 cases, mortality and severity and vitamin D deficiency. In contrast, Chen et al. [15] showed that vitamin D deficiency or insufficiency, even vitamin D supplementation was not significant in the risk of COVID-19 or susceptibility to death in a meta-analysis study involving 536,105 patients. ...
Article
Amaç :Although some recent studies have shown that serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) may be effective on the course of Covid-19 disease, the results obtained are still controversial. Therefore, in this study, it was aimed to examine whether there are differences in terms of age, gender, length of hospital stay, biochemical and hematological parameters between those with and without serum 25(OH)D deficiency in Covid-19 patients. Gereç ve Yöntem: The data of 413 patients hospitalized in Ankara Pursaklar State Hospital whose covid-19 positivity was revealed by PCR test were evaluated retrospectively. Those with less than serum 25(OH)D (
... AlSafar y colaboradores (21) , en su estudio multicéntrico observacional, encontraron que los niveles en suero de 25(OH)D < 12 ng/mL se asociaron con la gravedad de COVID-19 y la mortalidad. Un estudio retrospectivo mostró la asociación para casos críticos de COVID-19 y niveles bajos de 25(OH)D en sangre (23) . ...
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Introducción: la 25-hidroxivitamina D(25(OH)D) disminuiría la incidencia de infecciones respiratorias virales por su efecto pleiotrópico en la inmunomodulación. Objetivos: investigar la posible asociación entre deficiencia grave de 25(OH) D a la admisión en la unidad de cuidados intensivos (UCI) y gravedad de la enfermedad en pacientes diagnosticados con enfermedad por coronavirus de 2019 (COVID-19); determinar si existe una asociación entre la deficiencia grave de 25(OH)D a la admisión, el requerimiento de ventilación mecánica invasiva, las comorbilidades y la mortalidad. Métodos: estudio retrospectivo observa- cional, que incluyó a 164 pacientes con diag- nóstico de COVID-19 ingresados a la UCI que tuvieran valores plasmáticos de 25(OH)D las primeras 72 horas de internación. Resultados: exhibieron deficiencia de 25(OH)D (< 30 ng/ mL) 136 (83 %) pacientes y 35 (21 %) presentaron valores de 25(OH)D ≤ 12 ng/ml. Los pacientes con deficiencia grave de 25(OH)D tuvieron significativamente mayor probabilidad de COVID-19 grave (odds ratio [OR]: 2,2; intervalo de confianza [IC] 95 %: 1,02 a 5,06; p = 0,049) y presentaron mayor probabilidad de requerir ventilación mecánica invasiva (OR: 2,4; IC 95 %: 1,09 a 5,58; p = 0,036). La mortalidad fue significativamente mayor en el grupo con deficiencia grave de 25(OH)D (40 % frente a 22 %; p = 0,03), con un OR de 2,4; IC 95 %: 1,07 a 5,32; p = 0,031. En el modelo multivariado, el antecedente de enfermedad cardiovascular, deficiencia grave de 25(OH)D, PaO2/FiO2 y ventilación mecánica invasiva, permanecieron significativos. Conclusión: este estudio confirma que la deficiencia grave de vitamina D se asocia con una afectación pulmonar más grave, una mayor gravedad de la enfermedad y riesgo de muerte en pacientes con COVID-19.
... A low level of vitamin D is frequently observed in older individuals, those who are obese or smoke, and those who have diabetes, hypertension, or gastroenterological conditions. Also, COVID-19 is more prevalent and has more severe complications and mortality rates among the mentioned groups (11,15). ...
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Background: Areas with a higher prevalence of vitamin D deficiency have reported a higher frequency of severe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) infections. Objectives: This study aimed to assess the possible association between vitamin D and COVID-19. Methods: This study examined the vitamin D status, hepatic, serologic, and hematologic parameters of COVID-19 patients who tested positive upon admission to a major referral center in southwest Iran. A total of 50 cases and 50 controls were enrolled in the study after obtaining informed consent. The patients did not receive a vitamin D supplement during their hospitalization. Results: Patients with insufficiency and deficiency of vitamin D3 had a longer hospitalization time, a higher likelihood of ICU admission, and a greater risk of death compared to cases with sufficient levels of vitamin D. Conclusions: The results of this study showed that vitamin D deficiency is associated with increased severity and mortality rates. Therefore, using a vitamin D supplement may help reduce the severity of COVID-19.
... In spite of this, however, no significant correlation was found between mean serum vitamin D levels and deaths per million population [54]. Similar studies done in a cohort of 412 patients in South Asia also found statistically significant differences between the serum vitamin D levels of patients who experienced mild, ordinary, severe and critical cases of SARS-CoV-2 [55]. In a study of 62 patients in a tertiary teaching hospital in Singapore, it was discovered that those treated with vitamin D showed a reduced need for additional oxygen, while patients treated with vitamins D (1000 mg), B12 (500 mg) and magnesium (150 mg) showed significantly more favorable outcomes than those not treated with this regimen [56]. ...
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The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-COV-2), a type of coronavirus that causes the condition known as coronavirus disease, was first reported in Wuhan, China in 2019. It commonly affects the respiratory system and is known to produce, in some cases, pneumonia like symptoms, and even death. However, 25 hydroxyvitamin D commonly known as vitamin D, is, when in its hormonal form, involved in many processes throughout the body, including bone health and immune function. Several studies have linked vitamin D to increased resistance to infection, but the link between vitamin D levels and COVID-19 infection, severity and mortality is yet to be fully ascertained. Several studies have linked vitamin D serum levels and deficiency to differing levels of COVID-19 outcome. This review seeks to investigate these claims made in these studies to help add to the body of knowledge and come to a greater understanding of the link between vitamin D and COVID-19 infection.
... However, more recent clinical trials found that VitD supplementation had no effect on the risk of SARS CoV2 infection, disease development or the severity thereof [45,46]. Additionally, there was some controversy on the role of VitD in COVID-19 after some earlier studies were retracted due to the fast tracking of publications early in the pandemic [47,48]. In our view, even if the current data on VitD supplementation may be inconclusive, it remains important to further investigate any factors that may be protective against severe COVID-19. ...
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Background: Severe COVID-19 has a poor prognosis, and biomarkers may predict disease severity. This study aimed to assess the effect of baseline Vitamin D (VitD) inadequacy on outcome of patients with severe COVID-19 admitted to intensive care unit (ICU) in a tertiary hospital in South Africa. Methods: Patients with confirmed SARS-CoV-2 were recruited during wave II of the pandemic in Cape Town. Eighty-six patients were included in the study. They were categorized into three groups "VitD deficient, VitD insufficient and VitD sufficient". We combined the VitD deficient with insufficient group to form "VitD inadequate'' group. Cox regression analysis was done to assess the association between VitD status and mortality. Factors with p< 0.05 in adjusted multivariable cox regression were considered statistically significant. Results: The proportion of VitD inadequacy was 64% (55/86), with significantly higher proportion of hypertension (66%; p 0.012). Kaplan Meir curve showed no significant difference in the probability of survival among the COVID-19 patients admitted in the ICU with or without VitD inadequacy. However, patients with elevated serum creatinine were significantly more at risk of dying (Adjusted Hazard Ratio 1.008 (1.002 - 1.030, p<0.017). Conclusion: Our study found a high prevalence of VitD inadequacy (combined deficiency and insufficiency) in COVID-19 patients admitted to the ICU. This may indicate a possible risk of severe disease. Whilst there was no statistically significant relationship between VitD status and mortality in this cohort, baseline VitD may be an important prognostic biomarker in COVID-19 patients admitted to the ICU, particularly in those with comorbidities that predispose to VitD deficiency.
... Poiché dall'analisi della letteratura selezionata diversi trial clinici erano già inclusi nelle systematic review analizzate (Tan et al., 2020;Darling et al., 2020;Ilie et al., 2020;Alipio, 2020;Merzon et al., 2020) e, in considerazione delle linee guida PRISM A statement utilizzate come strumento di valutazione degli studi, siamo arrivati a selezionare 8 articoli (Figura. 2). ...
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La vitamina D (Vit. D) è una vitamina liposolubile e un ormone che svolge un ruolo centrale nel mantenimento dell’equilibrio calcio/fosforo e dell’omeostasi ossea, in stretta interazione con l’ormone paratiroideo. Essa agisce su tessuti bersaglio classici, quali ossa, reni, intestino e ghiandole paratiroidi. Tuttavia il sistema endocrino, regolando diversi geni (circa il 3% del genoma umano), è in grado di esercitare effetti pleiotropici sui tessuti extrascheletrici, come sistema immunitario, apparato cardiovascolare, cellule endocrine pancreatiche, muscoli e tessuto adiposo. Diversi studi hanno dimostrato il ruolo preventivo della Vit. D nella cura di varie malattie autoimmuni, in quanto essa agisce sull’ attivazione del sistema immunitario, sul miglioramento del metabolismo, sulla funzione muscolare e sul tessuto adiposo. Da ciò deriva che nella comunità scientifica internazionale siano emerse ricerche volte a dimostrare un ruolo attivo di questa vitamina come possibile terapia adiuvante nelle cure per infezione da Sars-Cov-2.
... confidence interval, 1.33 odds ratio) (contrary to our study, in Faul et al.'s study, it was shown that the serum level Vitamin D was lower in patients infected with the corona virus who ultimately required hospitalization in the ICU, compared to patients who were hospitalized in the general ward with milder symptoms (22). The disease has been reported in several studies (19)(20)(21). ...
Article
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Background and purpose: Vitamin D deficiency is highly prevalent in Iran. Death toll due to the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) is high in this country. The purpose of the present investigation was to provide more information on the relationship between serum levels of vitamin D in confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Iraq.
... Alipio et al conducted a multinomial logistic regression to investigate the association between serum 25(OH)D level and clinical outcomes of 212 cases with laboratory-confirmed infection of SARS-CoV2. The author reported that a decrease in serum 25(OH)D level could worsen clinical outcomes of COVID-19 patients.21 A study done by Ilie et al found significant relationships between low vitamin D levels and the severity of covid 19 infection.22 ...
Research
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Background: Vitamin D recently has been reviewed as one of the factors that may affect the severity in COVID 19 infection. Despite its role in calcium and phosphorus metabolism, vitamin D has multiple effects on cell proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis, immune regulation, genome stability and neurogenesis. Recent studies have also found that vitamin D deficiency is closely associated with infectious diseases, diabetes, cancers, autoimmune diseases and cardiovascular diseases. Materials and methods: The current study was undertaken for a period of 6 weeks. The study enrolled 125 COVID 19 positive patients, 60 in group A (non-hypoxic) and 65 in group B (hypoxic but not requiring ICU admission). Participants were of age group 20-60 years. Serum levels of 25(OH) vitamin D were measured. Serum vitamin D concentration was estimated by using CLIA (Chemiluminescence Immuno Assay) technique. Standard statistical analysis was performed to analyze the differences. Results: The mean level of vitamin D was 31.87 ng/ml in group A and 18.11ng/ml in group B, the difference was highly significant (p value <0.0001). Vitamin D level is markedly low in group B patients. In hypoxic patients (group B), 60% were having deficient serum vitamin D level and 33.8% were having insufficient level of serum vitamin D. Conclusion: In our study in comparison to non-hypoxic group, vitamin D level is low in hypoxic group. Vitamin D supplementation may help for COVID19 patients.
... Alipio et al conducted a multinomial logistic regression to investigate the association between serum 25(OH)D level and clinical outcomes of 212 cases with laboratory-confirmed infection of SARS-CoV2. The author reported that a decrease in serum 25(OH)D level could worsen clinical outcomes of COVID-19 patients.21 A study done by Ilie et al found significant relationships between low vitamin D levels and the severity of covid 19 infection.22 ...
Research
Background: Vitamin D recently has been reviewed as one of the factors that may affect the severity in COVID 19 infection. Despite its role in calcium and phosphorus metabolism, vitamin D has multiple effects on cell proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis, immune regulation, genome stability and neurogenesis. Recent studies have also found that vitamin D deficiency is closely associated with infectious diseases, diabetes, cancers, autoimmune diseases and cardiovascular diseases. Materials and methods: The current study was undertaken for a period of 6 weeks. The study enrolled 125 COVID 19 positive patients, 60 in group A (non-hypoxic) and 65 in group B (hypoxic but not requiring ICU admission). Participants were of age group 20-60 years. Serum levels of 25(OH) vitamin D were measured. Serum vitamin D concentration was estimated by using CLIA (Chemiluminescence Immuno Assay) technique. Standard statistical analysis was performed to analyze the differences. Results: The mean level of vitamin D was 31.87 ng/ml in group A and 18.11ng/ml in group B, the difference was highly significant (p value <0.0001). Vitamin D level is markedly low in group B patients. In hypoxic patients (group B), 60% were having deficient serum vitamin D level and 33.8% were having insufficient level of serum vitamin D. Conclusion: In our study in comparison to non-hypoxic group, vitamin D level is low in hypoxic group. Vitamin D supplementation may help for COVID19 patients.
... D'Avolio et al. [26] reported that individuals with significantly lower 25(OH)D levels had a higher risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection and COVID-19 was more strongly associated with 25(OH) D levels than other respiratory tract infections. Recent studies have shown that COVID-19 patients with Vitamin D deficiency had poor outcomes, while those with high Vitamin D levels had better outcomes [27,28]. Jain et al. and Merzon et al. [29,30] noted that COVID-19 patients with Vitamin D deficiency and poor outcomes may benefit from Vitamin D supplementation. ...
... There are however mixed results on level of effectiveness of vitamin D in the treatment of COVID-19. The only strong point for vitamin D against COVID-19 as it has so far been established is that, the outbreak occurred in the winter, a time when 25-hydroxy-vitamin D [49][50][51] concentrations are lowest in the body . ...
Article
COVID-19 literally ambushed humanity and took the medical world by surprise with no adequate arrangement to manage it in terms of appropriate drugs and vaccine as the origin of the disease still remains a mystery. There has been aggressive search for an appropriate drug that will bring this pandemic with high mortality under control. This study took time to carry out a literature search on the drugs and medications so far tried on COVID-19 patients since its outbreak in Wuhan China to date. We carried out search on Medline, PubMed, SciElo, Google scholar, among others on drugs used for SARS-COV-2 infections and some of the documented outcomes. The study found a constraint in time by researchers to carry out a comprehensive study on any of the drugs since the disease was causing high mortalities across the globe. Most of the drugs that appeared beneficial and non-beneficial in treatment of SARS-COV-2 infections did not use adequate samples enough to draw statistically significant inferences. At the moment, high-impact treatment options for COVID-19 are; Antiviral drugs, Anti-inflammatory drugs, ACE inhibitors and angiotensin receptor blockers, Hydroxychloroquine + Azithromycin and convalescent serum among several other options including COVID organics. We however recommend that treating Physicians are at liberty to use appropriate combination of medications at their disposal based on information provided below as we lack sufficient proof to make any drug recommendation. This may possibly reduce the rates of disease progressions from mild into severe disease requiring intensive care and ventilators.
... Four-hundred-thirteen studies were then excluded as they were case reports (n = 2), reviews (n = 137), meta-analysis (n = 9), editorial/letters (n = 112), or because they were not relevant for the aims of the present meta-analysis (n = 153). Two studies available as preprints until August 2020 were excluded since they were subsequently retracted (30)(31)(32). In addition, 7 studies were excluded due to incomplete data, mainly due to the lack of information concerning disease outcomes in relation to 25OHD thresholds (33)(34)(35)(36)(37)(38)(39) or because severe COVID-19 cases requiring intubation or mechanical respiratory support were not considered for 25OHD measurement (40). ...
... While in Norway, Finland, and Sweden, where infection and mortality rates were lower, 25(OH)D levels were higher and there were fewer people with vitamin D deficiency [18]. Other observational studies found that the serum 25(OH)D level was lower in critical cases and higher in mild cases [19], and the relative risk of testing positive for COVID-19 was 1.77 times higher for patients with probable vitamin D D deficiency compared to patients with probably sufficient vitamin D status [20]. ...
Article
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Numerous studies have demonstrated the profile of infection and symptoms related to COVID-19 that occur with pulmonary manifestations (such as Acute Respiratory Syndrome), digestive symptoms, anosmia, and ageusia. Many comorbidities have been associated with deaths and severe cases of the disease, such as diabetes, hypertension, obesity, and heart disease. However, many questions remain unanswered, especially the association of disease severity with hypovitaminosis D. Vitamin D deficiency is widely found in patients in Intensive Care Units, and recent studies have shown that it has been suggested that patients with severe manifestations of COVID-19 have hypovitaminosis D. Therefore, the present study aims to associate the presence of hypovitaminosis D in patients with the acute respiratory syndrome, positive for SARS-COV-2, admitted to the José Alencar Regional Hospital in Uberaba/Brazil and the evolution of the disease (days of hospitalization, hospitalization in the ICU, discharge and death) through the analysis of vitamin D (25(OH)D) hospitalized patients clinical records. The incidence of hypovitaminosis D among the patients was also assessed. The results may contribute to the understanding of the disease, as well as the need for vitamin supplementation.
... Starsze osoby, u których występują choroby współistniejące pod postacią cukrzycy, nadciśnienia, przewlekłej choroby układu oddechowego, choroby nowotworowej, oraz które posiadają ciężkie niedobory witaminy D mają wyższe ryzyko zakażenia SARS-Cov-2.Wykazano także, że dzieci są mniej podatne na zakażenie wirusem. Często występuje u nich asymptomatyczny przebieg zakażenia [4,7,8]. ...
Article
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Introduction and purpose of work: COVID-19 is a disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Vitamin D is categorized as a steroid hormone that affects the body's calcium-phosphate balance. It also exerts an immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory function. Numerous studies indicate that vitamin D levels may have an impact on the course of COVID-19 infection. The purpose of this study is to describe the potential health benefits of vitamin D supplementation in COVID-19 patients. The literature available in the PubMed database was reviewed using the following keywords: "vitamin D"; "COVID-19 infection"; "SARS-Cov-2 virus". Stan wiedzy: Witamina D zmniejsza ryzyko ciężkiej ostrej infekcji górnych dróg oddechowych i COVID-19 poprzez jej wpływ na zmniejszenie replikacji wirusa, zmniejszenie produkcji cytokin prozapalnych i zwiększenie integralności komórek śródbłonka w drogach oddechowych. Stymuluje również syntezę katelicydyny i beta-defensyn. Białka, o których mowa, wykazują bezpośrednią aktywność przeciwwirusową. Część badań dowodzi, że niedobór witaminy D zwiększa śmiertelność, potrzebę inwazyjnej i nieinwazyjnej wentylacji u pacjentów z SARS-Cov-2-dodatnim. Udowodniono, że odpowiednia suplementacja omawianej witaminy zmniejsza ryzyko zakażenia COVID-19 nawet u osób wrażliwych. Wnioski: Wykazano, że obniżony poziom witaminy D zwiększa częstość występowania i nasilenie infekcji COVID-19. Istnieje potrzeba dalszych badań w celu potwierdzenia suplementacji witaminy jako skutecznej metody zapobiegania i łagodzenia infekcji wirusem SARS-Cov-2.
... Since reduced blood 25(OH)D levels are more prevalent in the elderly portion of the population, vitamin D deficiency may worsen the severity and prognosis of elder COVID-19 patients [10,11]. In addition to the severity of the disease, a sufficient vitamin D status can modulate the C-reactive protein (CRP) levels, which is an inflammatory marker increased in infections, and it can suppress the inflammatory cytokine storm caused by COVID-19, suggesting an immunomodulatory function in viral infections [12]. However, there are a limited number of data showing a possible correlation between vitamin D status and the risk of secondary infections in the prognosis and mortality of patients with severe COVID-19 [13,14]. ...
Article
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There are several studies showing that the vitamin D status can determine risk of COVID-19 infections, severity and mortality from coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). However, the association between vitamin D (25(OH)D) and secondary infections in the prognosis of COVID-19 patients has not been reported yet. The aim was to investigate whether the vitamin D status affects the rates of secondary infections in patients with severe COVID-19 hospitalized in the intensive care unit (ICU) of a tertiary-level hospital in Turkey. The data of 194 patients with diagnosis of severe COVID-19 who were admitted to the ICU from March 2020 to June 2021 and older than 18 years were evaluated in this retrospective study. The patients were divided into two groups according to total serum 25(OH)D level as normal group (≥20 ng/mL) and low group (
... In a retrospective study, the levels of vitamin D at the time of diagnosis in 212 patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection were examined and it was found that there is a relationship between the prognosis of the disease and vitamin D levels. 3 In our study, we found that patients with low vitamin levels had more severe COVID-19 and needed additional supportive treatments. ...
Article
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Objectives: The severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) virus, was identified as the cause of a severe respiratory illness in Wuhan, China three years ago. The COVID-19 infection, which was declared a pandemic in March 2020, caused more than 600 million people to get sick and close to 7 million people to die. Which people have the disease more severely and who have higher mortality are still the subject of research. We investigated whether vitamin D, whose role in immunity has been known for a long time, also affects the prognosis of COVID-19 infection. COVID-19 is currently the leading cause of death worldwide. Vitamin D is an important micronutrient and has been reported to protect against respiratory diseases by improving immunity. In this study, we aimed to reveal whether the 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25 (OH) D) concentration is associated with the risk and severity of COVID-19 by evaluating vitamin D levels in outpatients or hospitalized patients with the diagnosis of COVID-19. Methods: In the study, vitamin D levels in 124 COVID-19 cases and clinical course and laboratory findings were analyzed retrospectively between March 11-May 31 2020. Statistical analysis was done using IBM SPSS 23. Kolmogorov Smirnov, Man Whitney U, Kruskal Wallis Test, Chi-square, and fisher extract and risk analysis tests were used. Categorical variables were expressed as %. P value < 0.05 was considered significant. Results: Vitamin 25 (OH) D level in 32 patients (median 10.2) who were given antiviral treatment and needed oxygen. It was found to be significantly lower than the other 92 patients (median 16.25). When patients who needed oxygen treatment during COVID-19 treatment were examined in terms of vitamin D levels; It was observed that patients with 25 (OH) vitamin D level < 10 needed more O2 (OR: 2,833 CI 95% 1,230-6,528, p = 0.013). In patients with 25 (OH) vitamin D < 10, more patients had pulmonary involvement with thorax CT (OR: 2.225 CI 95% 0.999-4.952 p = 0.048) and these patients had more back pain symptoms (OR: 4,765 CI 95% 1,126-20,163 p = 0.022). Patients with 25 (OH) vitamin D
... Two large scale meta-analysis studies [72,73] suggested that low serum levels of vitamin D was associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection and hospitalization. [74] found that 72.8% were with serious disease in those with vitamin D level of <20 ng/ml, whereas 85.5% were with moderate disease in those with vitamin D level of > 30 ng/ml. Although, most of studies suggest the association between vitamin D status and COVID-19 incidence and severity, however, Bilezikian et al [46] suggest that clinical link between SARS-CoV-2 infection and vitamin D status is still considered hypothetical. ...
Conference Paper
In a case-control study, fifty two subjects with COVID-19 were included in the study and 30 gender and age matched apparently healthy individuals were included as control. Vitamin D serum level determined by Mini Vidus, WBC, Lymphocytes and PCV by Swelab. CRP determined manually. SPSS package used for statistical analysis. Vitamin D mean serum level in COVID-19 subjects was significantly lower [P=0.007] than that in control group. Vitamin D mean serum value was lower than normal recommended value in patients with COVID-19. Additionally, the frequency of < 10 ng/ml was 30% in controls, while it was 42% in patients group. When the results stratified on < 20 ng/ml strata, controls show 70%, while patients corresponding value was 81%. The mean serum levels of vitamin D were higher in male compared to female, in smoker as compared to non-smoker and in patients with age of ≥ 50 years. However, the differences not reach significant values. There was inverse correlation between Vitamin D low serum levels and CRP levels indicating a significant association between disease severity and vitamin D serum levels. Serum vitamin D was higher in patients with chronic diseases than that in patients without chronic diseases history, however, the difference not reach significant level.
... Autophagy is an essential role of the immune system because it safeguards against viral infections. 62 1,25(OH) 2 D3 influences autophagy by modulating various approaches, including the generation of apoptogenic molecules such as Bcl-2 along with cell regulatory mechanisms including the mammalian target of rapamycin pathway, class III phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase complex (an enzyme involved in cellular growth proliferation and differentiation), and cathelicidin biosynthesis. As a result, it accelerates virus clearance and diminishes the viral burden. ...
Article
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COVID-19 remains a life-threatening infectious disease worldwide. Several bio-active agents have been tested and evaluated in an effort to contain this disease. Unfortunately, none of the therapies have been successful, owing to their safety concerns and the presence of various adverse effects. Various countries have developed vaccines as a preventive measure; however, they have not been widely accepted as effective strategies. The virus has proven to be exceedingly contagious and lethal, so finding an effective treatment strategy has been a top priority in medical research.
... Conditions associated with vitamin D deficiency, that is to say, diabetes and hypertension, may be indirectly associated with the severity of COVID-19 [88]. Retrospective, multicenter research put forth that COVID-19 patients with vitamin D deficiency had poorer outcomes overall, while those with higher vitamin D levels had better outcomes [89]. Rhodes et al. (2021) accentuated that there is strong evidence to attribute vitamin D deficiency to severity of COVID-19 infection [90]. ...
Article
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Background Vitamin D is classified as an immunomodulatory hormone that is synthesized because of skin exposure to sunlight. It is known to come into play during the regulation of hormone secretion, immune functions, cell proliferation, and differentiation. Its deficiency can cause many diseases and their associated pleiotropic effects. In addition, in relation to its eminent function as regards adaptive immune response and innate immune response, vitamin D level is associated with immune tolerance. Methods Literature search prior to May 2021 was conducted through selected websites, including the MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Science, Cochrane Central, www.ClinicalTrials.gov , PubMed, Science Direct, Google Scholar, and EFSA. Results Vitamin D is found effective for the regulation of hormone secretion, immune functions, and cell proliferation along with differentiation. Its role as an immune modulator is based on the presence of receptors on many immune cells and the synthesis of its active metabolite from these cells. Vitamin D, an immune system modulator, inhibits cell proliferation and stimulates cell differentiation. A fair number of immune system diseases, encompassing autoimmune disorders alongside infectious diseases, can occur because of low serum vitamin D levels. Supplementation of vitamin D has positive effects in lessening the severity nature of disease activity; there exists no consensus on the dose to be used. Conclusion It is figured out that a higher number of randomized controlled trials are essential to evaluate efficacy pertaining to clinical cases, treatment duration, type, and dose of supplementation and pathophysiology of diseases, immune system functioning, and the effect of vitamin D to be administered.
... In Europe, an analysis of vitamin D status revealed that a deficit of vitamin D was prominent in countries with increased rates of COVID-19 death and infection [118]. Additionally, preliminary data from the US documented a strong correlation between vitamin D insufficiency with poor outcomes and death [119], while Maghbooli, Sahraian [120] reported a statistically significant decrease in unconsciousness and hypoxia in patients with vitamin D sufficiency A retrospective study of 212 COVID-19 patients from three different South Asian hospitals revealed significantly different mean vitamin D levels among mild, ordinary, severe and critical COVID-19 cases [121]. In contrast, Indian patients showed no correlation between baseline vitamin D levels, mortality, length of hospital stay, or need for ventilation [122]. ...
Article
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The highly transmittable and infectious COVID-19 remains a major threat worldwide, with the elderly and comorbid individuals being the most vulnerable. While vaccines are currently available, therapeutic drugs will help ease the viral outbreak and prevent serious health outcomes. Epigenetic modifications regulate gene expression through changes in chromatin structure and have been linked to viral pathophysiology. Since epigenetic modifications contribute to the life cycle of the virus and host immune responses to infection, epigenetic drugs are promising treatment targets to ameliorate COVID-19. Deficiency of the multifunctional secosteroid hormone vitamin D is a global health threat. Vitamin D and its receptor function to regulate genes involved in immunity, apoptosis, proliferation, differentiation, and inflammation. Amassed evidence also indicates the biological relations of vitamin D with reduced disease risk, while its receptor can be modulated by epigenetic mechanisms. The immunomodulatory effects of vitamin D suggest a role for vitamin D as a COVID-19 therapeutic agent. Therefore, this review highlights the epigenetic effects on COVID-19 and vitamin D while also proposing a role for vitamin D in COVID-19 infections.
... Also, this vitamin can be effective in reducing the symptoms of COVID-19 disease by modulating the activity and increasing the efficiency of natural and specific immune cells, as well as reducing the inflammation caused by their excessive stimulation [24]. Several systematic studies consider the ways in which vitamin D reduces the risk of viral infections [25][26][27][28][29][30]. In a study conducted by Guven M, et al. [30] the effect of high-dose parenteral vitamin D3 on COVID-19related in hospital mortality in critical COVID-19 patients was evaluated during intensive care unit admission through an observational cohort study. ...
Article
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Despite many efforts around the world to control the outbreak of COVID- 19 virus, this issue has become a pandemic. According to the latest research on the global spread of COVID- 19, researchers have found that adequate vitamin D3 increases resistance to viral infections, reduces the severity of symptoms of the disease, and ultimately mortality rate. However, the results are still contradictory. There are receptors in the human body called ACE2. The COVID- 19 virus can enter the body by binding to these receptors, and the symptoms of the disease develop gradually. Meanwhile, vitamin D3 can attach to these receptors and prevent the corona virus from attaching to the body’s organs. Thus, people who have lower levels of vitamin D3 absorbed during this epidemic should take vitamin D supplements to maintain an optimal level of 25 (OH) D in the blood. Randomized controlled trials and large population studies should be conducted to evaluate these recommendations. There is insufficient evidence between level of vitamin D3 intake and mortality rate of COVID-19 in patients. This review summarizes some of the latest findings about the role of vitamin D3 in COVID-19 infections, severity, and mortality.
Article
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Background Various studies have reported that the normal level of vitamin D is related to the improvement of the prognosis of patients. Therefore, the level of vitamin D should be checked in hospitalized patients and in cases of vitamin D deficiency. Aim This study was conducted to investigate the serum level of vitamin D and its relationship with the outcome of the disease in hospitalized patients with COVID-19. Methods This is a cross-sectional study (descriptive-analytical) that examined 100 patients with COVID-19. After obtaining permission from Jiroft University of Medical Sciences, the desired data was collected using a researcher-made checklist. The data of the study was collected by the researcher visiting the inpatient wards of the COVID-19 patients. Data were analyzed using SPSS-v-22 software. Results The average age of the patients was 54.3 ± 24.7 years (age range 3 to 96 years), of which 53 were women and 47 were men. Only 53% of the examined patients were hospitalized, and the rest were included in the study as outpatients. The level of vitamin D in hospitalized people was significantly lower than in outpatients, the serum level of vitamin D in deceased people was lower than in other groups, and a significant relationship was found between age and vitamin D levels in people with COVID-19. Conclusion The results demonstrated that the frequency of vitamin D deficiency was higher in patients with COVID-19. There was a significant relationship between the average serum level of vitamin D and the severity of COVID-19 disease.
Article
Vitamin D is an important component of immune function, and deficiency in childhood is associated with an increased risk of acute respiratory viral infections. Purpose. To assess the dynamics of vitamin D supply in children after a new coronavirus infection with the use of cholecalciferol. Material and methods. We examined 55 children aged 0–17 years (10.0 [9.2; 10.6] years), 52.7 % boys with COVID-19, who received cholecalciferol in a dose of 1000 to 3000 IU for 30 days in depending on the concentration of 25(OH)D. After 30 days of taking vitamin D3, the levels of total vitamin D in the blood serum were re-determined. Results. The median 25(OH)D level in children with COVID-19 was 24.5 [23.9; 26.7] ng/ml. 34.5 % of children had vitamin D deficiency status (≤ 20 ng/ml), 32.7 % had insufficiency (21–30 ng/ml), a third of patients had normal vitamin D status (≥ 30 ng/ml). As a result of treatment with cholecalciferol, the number of children with hypovitaminosis D decreased by 2 times (35.4 %, p < 0.05), with an adequate level — doubled (65.5 %, p < 0.05). Depending on the level of 25(OH)D, no statistically significant differences were found in the severity of coronavirus infection (χ² = 0.872, p = 0.929). Conclusion. In 2/3 of cases, children infected with SARS-CoV-2 had hypovitaminosis D. Children under 6 years of age were more likely to have vitamin D insufficiency, while patients 7–17 years of age had a deficiency. The distribution of vitamin D levels did not differ depending on the severity of coronavirus infection. Doses of cholecalciferol taken for 30 days were sufficient to increase the concentration of vitamin D in the blood serum of children with deficiency but did not reach standard values in patients with vitamin D deficiency.
Article
Over the last two decades, the emergence of lethal virulent strains of coronavirus (CoV), including the severe acute respiratory syndrome CoV 2 (SARS-CoV-2), which is responsible for the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, has become a matter of great attention to the scientific community. Despite the implementation of preventive measures throughout the world, the spread of this disease and associated co-morbidities and mortality continue in all countries, continents, and populations of all ages. COVID-19 is highly contagious. Clinical manifestations are diverse and range from asymptomatic, mild to severe, life-threatening complications in the elderly and patients with underlying conditions such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, obesity, and asthma. In addition, viral infections can trigger asthma attacks. To date, there is no specific treatment schema to combat COVID-19 disease. Current patient care revolves around disease severity and supportive treatment of symptoms from home-rest in mild disease to anti-viral therapy, oxygen support, anti-inflammatories, and anti-coagulants in severe COVID-19. Regarding prevention, the World Health Organization recommends vaccination, social distancing, quarantine, the wearing of surgical masks, and handwashing. In many countries, vaccination is optional, and given that parents are often reluctant to vaccinate themselves and their children for fear of side effects, identifying ways to enhance or support the immune system to prevent infection or improve recovery in vulnerable populations is worth investigating. Furthermore, research has focused on the pharmacological management of COVID-19 symptoms and much less has been published on nutrition therapy. Therefore, the scope of this review is to summarize the latest evidence on the use of vitamin D to support the metabolism and the immune system of asthma patients during the COVID-19 pandemic. A brief overview of asthma and COVID-19 pathophysiology, COVID-19 treatment guidelines for asthma patients, and the role of vitamin D in lung health, including the optimal blood level required to enhance immunity, will be suggested.
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D Vitamini Kimyasal Yapısı ve Metabolizması Hülya Cenk D Vitamini Ve Genetik Aydın Rüstemoğlu D Vitamininin Normal Serum Düzeyleri, D Vitamin Düzeylerini Etkileyen Faktörler Ve D Vitamini Yetmezliği Sabiye Akbulut Serum D Vitamininin Ölçümü Andaç Uzdoğan, Çiğdem Yücel D Vitamini Biyoyararlanımı ve Doğal Beslenme Kaynakları Atilla Çifci, Halil İbrahim Yakut Sistemik D Vitamini Tedavi Ajanları, Biyoyararlanımı ve Tedavi Yönetimi Işıl Deniz Oğuz Topikal D Vitamini Tedavisi, Tedavi Yönetimi ve Kullanıldığı Hastalıklar Dursun Türkmen Deride D Vitamini Sentezi Mekanizmaları Abdullah Demirbaş, Ömer Faruk Elmas Güneşten Koruyucu Kullanımı ve D Vitamini Nursel Dilek, Yunus Saral D Vitamininin Deri Yapısı ve Fizyolojisine Etkisi Pelin Hızlı Deri Yaşlanması ve D Vitamini Ülker Gül Psoriasis ve D Vitamini Ülker Gül Psöriatik Artrit ve D Vitamini Mehmet Uçar Atopik Dermatit ve D Vitamini Ayşegül Ertuğrul, İlknur Bostancı Mast Hücresi ve Kutanöz Mastositozda D Vitamini Selçuk Doğan, Tülin Çataklı, İlknur Bostancı Ürtiker ve D Vitamini Kemal Özyurt Kaşıntı ve D Vitamini Kübra Yüce Atamulu Likenoid Dermatozlar ve D Vitamini Nihal Altunışık Vitiligo ve D Vitamini Ayşe Akbaş Melasma ve D Vitamini İbrahim Etem Arıca Rozase ve D Vitamini Nalan Saraç Akne ve D Vitamini Selma Korkmaz Hidradenitis Süpürativa ve D Vitamini Yılmaz Ulaş Seboreik Dermatit ve D Vitamini Dilek Başaran Otoimmün Büllöz Hastalıklar ve D Vitamini Sezgi Sarıkaya Solak Bağ Doku Hastalıkları ve D Vitamini Kevser Gök Behçet Hastalığı ve D Vitamini Şule Ketenci Ertaş, Ragıp Ertaş İdiyopatik Fotodermatozlar ve D Vitamini Bülent Nuri Kalaycı İktiyozis ve D Vitamini Tubanur Çetinarslan Epidermolizis Bülloza ve Vitamin D Eda Haşal Kseroderma Pigmentozum, Epidermodisplasia Verrusiformis ve D Vitamini Derya Yayla Nevüsler ve D Vitamini Serpil Şener, Suat Sezer Aktinik Keratoz ve Seboreik Keratozda D Vitamini Mahmut Sami Metin Deri Maliniteleri ve D Vitamini Sevda Önder Vaskülitler ve Vitamin D Havva Hilal Ayvaz Venöz Trombozis ve D Vitamini Cahit Yavuz Yara İyileşmesi ve D Vitamini Bülent Nuri Kalaycı Diyabetik Ayak Ülseri ve D Vitamini Gözde Ulutaş Demirbaş, Abdullah Demirbaş Granülomatöz Hastalıklar ve D Vitamini Selma Bakar Dertlioğlu Deri Enfeksiyonları ve Vitamin D Atıl Avcı Oral Mukoza Hastalıkları ve D Vitamini Ali İhsan Güleç Tırnak Sağlığı ve Hastalıklarında D Vitamini Hülya Cenk Alopesiler ve D Vitamini Munise Daye Hirsutizm ve D Vitamini Efşan Gürbüz Yontar Sistemik Kortikosteroid Kullanımında D Vitamini Desteği Selma Korkmaz Fototerapi ve D Vitamini Tuğba Özkök Akbulut Covıd-19 Ve Vitamin D Sibel Altunışık Toplu D Vitamini Tedavisinin Yan Etkileri ve D Vitamini Tedavisi Sürecinde Dikkat Edilecek Hususlar Dursun Türkmen, Nihal Altunışık D Vitamini Ve İlaç İlaç Etkileşimleri Şule Gökşin D Vitamini İntoksikasyonu Bedriye Müge SÖNMEZ
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Background This review analyzed the magnitude of the COVID-19 pandemic globally and in India and the measures to counter its effect using natural and innate immune booster molecules. The study focuses on two phases: the first focuses on the magnitude, and the second on the effect of antioxidants (natural compounds) on SARS-CoV-2. Methods The magnitude of the prevalence, mortality, and comorbidities was acquired from the World Health Organization (WHO) report, media, a report from the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW), newspapers, and the National Centre of Disease Control (NCDC). Research articles from PubMed as well as other sites/journals and databases were accessed to gather literature on the effect of antioxidants. Results In the elderly and any chronic diseases, the declined level of antioxidant molecules enhanced the reactive oxygen species, which in turn deprived the immune system. Conclusion Innate antioxidant proteins like sirtuin and sestrin play a vital role in enhancing immunity. Herbal products and holistic approaches can also be alternative solutions for everyday life to boost the immune system by improving the redox balance in COVID-19 attack. This review analyzed the counteractive effect of alternative therapy to boost the immune system against the magnitude of the COVID-19 pandemic.
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This study was conducted on 98 children with confirmed COVID-19 and 2112 patients in a healthy control group. Serum vitamin D levels were significantly lower in the patients with confirmed COVID-19 than in the control group (10.9 ng/dL vs 16.1 ng/dL; P < .001). Almost 65% of patients with inadequate serum vitamin D levels had symptomatic COVID-19, and 30% of patients with adequate vitamin D levels had symptomatic COVID-19 ( P = .043). In the logistic model, inadequate vitamin D status was associated with symptomatic COVID-19 compared with asymptomatic COVID-19 (odds ratio = 4032; 95% confidence interval, 1.036-17.776; P = .045).
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Este trabalho objetivou mensurar o impacto da luz solar como fator protetor para morte pela COVID-19 nos estados brasileiros, uma vez que a exposição ao sol é uma das fontes mais utilizadas para absorção de vitamina D e o aumento dos seus níveis no organismo humano pode combater diversas patologias. Para isso, controlou-se os efeitos das características climáticas dos estados, das medidas de distanciamento social impostas compulsoriamente pelos governos estaduais através de decretos e da adesão da população ao isolamento social medido pelo índice de isolamento social. Além disso, controlou-se os efeitos que as taxas referentes à COVID-19 sofrem no tempo e no espaço, fazendo uso de modelos espaciais dinâmicos para dados em painel. Os resultados mostraram que as taxas de morte pela COVID-19 no período corrente apresentam relação positiva e significante tanto das taxas ocorridas no período anterior como daquelas ocorridas nos estados vizinhos no período corrente e na véspera ao fazer uso das variáveis defasadas no tempo e no espaço. As variáveis climáticas também se mostraram preditoras das taxas de mortes COVID-19, indicando que estados com maior número de horas efetivas de luz do sol, maior temperatura e maior humidade relativa, têm uma diminuição nas suas taxas de morte pela COVID-19.
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Introduction: The critical patient affected by SARS-CoV-2 is at risk of malnutrition. The need to avoid volume overload and manoeuvres that delay reaching nutritional requirements such as pronation make the nutritional approach to these patients complex. To ensure adequate treatment, a nutritional support protocol was developed as a clinical practice guideline adapted to the COVID-19 patient. Objective: To describe and analyse the results of introducing a nutritional support protocol aimed at SARS-CoV-2 patients admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) of the Consorcio Hospital General Universitario de Valencia (CHGUV) from March to May 2020. Material and methods: Observational, descriptive, retrospective and longitudinal design to evaluate compliance with a nutritional support protocol. Results: Thirty-one consecutive patients were included but nutritional follow-up could not be performed in eight. Of the remaining 23 patients, only eight reached 80% of caloric requirements before the tenth day after starting treatment (good compliance group) and 15 after the eleventh day (poor compliance group). In the group with «good compliance» 75% (n = 6) were discharged and 25% died (n = 2), compared to the group with «bad compliance» where 53% (n = 8) were discharged and 47% (n = 7) died (Chi square test, p-value = 0.019). Those patients who reached 80% of caloric needs during ICU stay had a shorter length of stay compared to those who did not (median days of admission = 14, IQR = 10-16 and median days of admission = 22, IQR = 13-39, p-value = 0.025). Conclusions: Introducing a nutritional protocol during the first weeks of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic could improve clinical outcomes by promoting healing and reducing associated complications.
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Background: The world is currently battling with Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) that originated in Wuhan, China late December 2019 and has now become a global pandemic. Objective: From the available scientific evidence, attempt was made to elucidate the possible molecular basis that underlays the severity of this disease with the aim of unveiling a novel therapeutic target for the development of effective therapy against this menace. Methods: Systematic MEDLINE (Ovid) and other databases such as EMBASE were searched for published articles up to June 2020. The subject heading/keywords – “novel coronavirus”, “2019 novel coronavirus”, “2019-nCoV”, “COVID-19”, “SARS-CoV-2 and Cytokines” were used. Results: The investigation revealed that SARS-CoV-2 having distinct tropism of nasal mucosa, negotiates its way into the host’s cells prominently through type II pneumocytes of the lungs using its SPIKE (S protein) recognition binding domain (RBD) on the host’s angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptors. Inside the cells, they rapidly replicate, avoiding the type I interferons (IFN-1) signaling crucial to the initial viral control. The delayed IFN-1 marshaling results to the encroachment of the neutrophils, mononuclear macrophages as well as cytokines/chemokines to the site of infections well above the threshold resulting in conditions known as hyper-cytokineamia (cytokine storm). This socalled “cytokine storm” orchestrates and exacerbates systemic hyper-inflammation, which induces lung injury and subsequently acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), multiple system organ failure (MSOF) and eventual death of the patients. Conclusions: Modulating the expression and exacerbation of cytokines such as IL-6 and IL-1β may be a novel therapeutic approach against late stage COVID-19.
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Introduction: The critical patient affected by SARS-CoV-2 is at risk of malnutrition. The need to avoid volume overload and manoeuvres that delay reaching nutritional requirements such as pronation make the nutritional approach to these patients complex. To ensure adequate treatment, a nutritional support protocol was developed as a clinical practice guideline adapted to the COVID-19 patient. Objective: To describe and analyse the results of introducing a nutritional support protocol aimed at SARS-CoV-2 patients admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) of the Consorcio Hospital General Universitario de Valencia (CHGUV) from March to May 2020. Material and methods: Observational, descriptive, retrospective and longitudinal design to evaluate compliance with a nutritional support protocol. Results: Thirty-one consecutive patients were included but nutritional follow-up could not be performed in eight. Of the remaining 23 patients, only eight reached 80% of caloric requirements before the tenth day after starting treatment (good compliance group) and 15 after the eleventh day (poor compliance group). In the group with «good compliance» 75% (n = 6) were discharged and 25% died (n = 2), compared to the group with «bad compliance» where 53% (n = 8) were discharged and 47% (n = 7) died (Chi square test, p-value = 0.019). Those patients who reached 80% of caloric needs during ICU stay had a shorter length of stay compared to those who did not (median days of admission = 14, IQR = 10-16 and median days of admission = 22, IQR = 13-39, p-value = 0.025). Conclusions: Introducing a nutritional protocol during the first weeks of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic could improve clinical outcomes by promoting healing and reducing associated complications.
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Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2(SARS-CoV-2) causes coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) with clinical outcome ranging from asymptomatic to severe disease, and even death to some. It posed a terrifying challenge to healthcare system worldwide. Several observational and clinical trials has reported that, Vitamin D deficiency has contributed to acute respiratory distress syndrome. Case fatality rate increases with age and comorbidities, both of which are associated with decreased Vitamin D level. Therefore, this study is done to study the prevalence of 25(OH)Vitamin D in RT-PCR positive COVID-19 cases and RT-PCR negative controls. This is a hospital based cross-sectional study conducted at Jawaharlal Nehru Institute of Medical Sciences, Manipur on 88 RT-PCR positive Covid-19 cases and 88 COVID-19 negative controls over a period of 2 years. Analysis of the sample was done by Liaison 25(OH) Vitamin D Total Chemiluminescence assay(CLIA). In this study, statistically significant (p-0.018) lower plasma 25(OH)Vitamin D level is seen in COVID-19 positive cases (median 28±20.47) when compared to Covid-19 negative controls(median 33.50±10.66). The number of 25(OH) Vitamin D deficient is higher in Covid-19 positive cases when compared to Covid-19 negative controls -46(52.3%) and 30(34%) respectively with a high statistically significant value (p-0.015). COVID-19 positive cases have higher tendency to have suboptimal plasma 25(OH) Vitamin D level which may contribute to the high hospitalization risk in COVID-19 infection. This finding is important as it can identify population at risk, and contribute to interventions in reducing the risk of hospitalization associated with COVID-19 infection.
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Background: The world is currently battling with Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) that originated in Wuhan, China late December 2019 and has now become a global pandemic. Objective: From the available scientific evidence, attempt was made to elucidate the possible molecular basis that underlays the severity of this disease with the aim of unveiling a novel therapeutic target for the development of effective therapy against this menace. Methods: Systematic MEDLINE (Ovid) and other databases such as EMBASE were searched for published articles up to June 2020. The subject heading/keywords-"novel coronavirus", "2019 novel coronavirus", "2019-nCoV", "COVID-19", "SARS-CoV-2 and Cytokines" were used. Results: The investigation revealed that SARS-CoV-2 having distinct tropism of nasal mucosa, negotiates its way into the host's cells prominently through type II pneumocytes of the lungs using its SPIKE (S protein) recognition binding domain (RBD) on the host's angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptors. Inside the cells, they rapidly replicate, avoiding the type I interferons (IFN-1) signaling crucial to the initial viral control. The delayed IFN-1 marshaling results to the encroachment of the neutrophils, mononuclear macrophages as well as cytokines/chemokines to the site of infections well above the threshold resulting in conditions known as hyper-cytokineamia (cytokine storm). This so-called "cytokine storm" orchestrates and exacerbates systemic hyper-inflammation, which induces lung injury and subsequently acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), multiple system organ failure (MSOF) and eventual death of the patients. Conclusions: Modulating the expression and exacerbation of cytokines such as IL-6 and IL-1β may be a novel therapeutic approach against late stage COVID-19.
Article
Background: The world is currently battling with Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) that originated in Wuhan, China late December 2019 and has now become a global pandemic. Objective: From the available scientific evidence, attempt was made to elucidate the possible molecular basis that underlays the severity of this disease with the aim of unveiling a novel therapeutic target for the development of effective therapy against this menace. Methods: Systematic MEDLINE (Ovid) and other databases such as EMBASE were searched for published articles up to June 2020. The subject heading/keywords-"novel coronavirus", "2019 novel coronavirus", "2019-nCoV", "COVID-19", "SARS-CoV-2 and Cytokines" were used. Results: The investigation revealed that SARS-CoV-2 having distinct tropism of nasal mucosa, negotiates its way into the host's cells prominently through type II pneumocytes of the lungs using its SPIKE (S protein) recognition binding domain (RBD) on the host's angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptors. Inside the cells, they rapidly replicate, avoiding the type I interferons (IFN-1) signaling crucial to the initial viral control. The delayed IFN-1 marshaling results to the encroachment of the neutrophils, mononuclear macrophages as well as cytokines/chemokines to the site of infections well above the threshold resulting in conditions known as hyper-cytokineamia (cytokine storm). This so-called "cytokine storm" orchestrates and exacerbates systemic hyper-inflammation, which induces lung injury and subsequently acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), multiple system organ failure (MSOF) and eventual death of the patients. Conclusions: Modulating the expression and exacerbation of cytokines such as IL-6 and IL-1β may be a novel therapeutic approach against late stage COVID-19.
Article
Background: COVID-19 is associated with a weak immune system in the human body. Vitamin D plays a role in the body’s immune system and is known to enhance the function of immune cells. In this case, vitamin D inhibits some of the inflammation that can make COVID-19 more severe. The is study aims to determine the serum levels of vitamin D, calcium, and phosphorus in COVID-19 patients. Methods: This was a cross sectional study conducted during the period from January 2021 to July 2021. 50 COVID-19 patients as a case study and 50 healthy individuals as a control group were included in this study. Blood samples were collected from the study group and measured for vitamin D using Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) technique. Calcium and phosphate were measured by the Cobas 6000 fully automated analyzer (Roche, Germany). Results: The study result showed that in COVID-19 patients, vitamin D (27 ± 5 ng/mL), p-value = 0.000, and calcium (10.2 ± 4 mg/dL), p-value = 0.000, in comparison with control. There was a correlation between vitamin D (r = -.771; p =.000) and calcium (r = -.752; p =.000) and the severity of disease. Conclusions: According to our research, vitamin D deficiency may increase the risk of developing COVID-19 and the risk of developing severe illnesses.
Article
Objective Vitamin D, due to its immunomodulating effect, zinc, and vitamin A, which affect cellular and humoral immunity, are thought to affect the clinical severity of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) infection. The present study evaluates the association between vitamin A, D, and zinc deficiencies and disease severity in pediatric patients with COVID-19 infections. Methods The levels of vitamin A, D, and zinc at the time of diagnosis of 123 pediatric patients who presented to our hospital and were diagnosed as having hospitalized, nonhospitalized COVID-19 infection group, and multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) were evaluated. The correlations of the measured levels with the disease severity and the need for intensive care or hospitalization were analyzed. Results Among the 123 patients, 21.1% (n = 26), 42.2% (n = 52), and 36.7% (n = 45) had a diagnosis of MIS-C, belonged to the hospitalized COVID-19 infection group, or belonged to the nonhospitalized COVID-19 infection group, respectively. Zinc levels were significantly lower in the MIS-C group than in the nonhospitalized group (p < 0.05). Vitamin A levels were found to be significantly lower in the MIS-C group than in the nonhospitalized group (p < 0.01) and significantly lower in the hospitalized group when compared with the nonhospitalized group (p < 0.001). Deficiencies in vitamin A, vitamin D, and zinc levels were found to be most common in the MIS-C group (42.3%) and in hospitalized COVID-19 group (15.3%). In the nonhospitalized COVID-19 group, it was found to be the lowest at 6.6%. Conclusion Based on the results of the present study and a literature review, it can be said that vitamin A, D, and zinc deficiencies may associate with the severity of COVID-19, although more studies are required to clarify this subject further.
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The world is in the grips of the COVID-19 pandemic. Public health measures that can reduce the risk of infection and death in addition to quarantines are desperately needed. This article reviews the roles of vitamin D in reducing risk of respiratory tract infections, knowledge about the epidemiology of influenza and COVID-19, and how vitamin D supplementation might be a useful measure to reduce risk. Through several mechanisms, vitamin D can reduce risk of infections. Those mechanisms include inducing cathelicidins and defensins that can lower viral replication rates and reducing concentrations of pro-inflammatory cytokines that produce the inflammation that injures the lining of the lungs, leading to pneumonia, as well as increase concentrations of anti-inflammatory cytokines. Several observational studies and clinical trials reported that vitamin D supplementation reduced risk of influenza, whereas others did not. Evidence supporting the role of vitamin D in reducing risk of COVID-19 includes that the outbreak occurred in winter, a time when 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] concentrations are lowest; that the number of cases in the Southern Hemisphere near the end of summer are low; that vitamin D deficiency has been found to contribute to acute respiratory distress syndrome, and that case-fatality rates increase with age and with chronic disease comorbidity, both of which are associated with lower 25(OH)D concentration. To reduce risk of infection, it is recommended that people at risk of influenza and/or COVID-19 consider taking 10,000 IU/d of vitamin D3 for a few weeks to rapidly raise 25(OH)D concentrations, followed by 5000 IU/d. The goal should be to raise 25(OH)D concentrations above 40–60 ng/ml (100–150 nmol/l). For treatment of people who become infected with COVID-19, higher vitamin D3 doses might be useful. Randomized controlled trials and large population studies should be conducted to evaluate these recommendations.
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The 2019 coronavirus outbreak started in Hubei Province in China. Despite major travel restrictions, the virus spread across all China’s provinces. Based on the rapidity of the dispersion, coronavirus has become a severe public health concern in China and many other countries. Coronavirus belongs to a large family of viruses that usually affect wild animals. Following gene mutations or close exposure to infected animals, these viruses are occasionally transmitted to humans and subsequently spread among humans. Coronaviruses cause the common cold and more severe diseases, such as Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS-CoV) and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS-CoV). Such diseases are infectious at close range and spread via air and person-to-person contact, with an approximate death rate of 3%. An effective vaccine against the 2019/20 coronavirus is expected to be available within 6 months. Precautions taken to prevent the spread of the COVID-19 are is similar to those used to lessen the transmission of the common cold and flu-like illnesses, but more stringent quarantining is required. Apart from wearing facemasks, social distancing, limiting time in public places and transportation, frequent washing hands with soap in running water is essential to prevent its spread. COVID-19 is going to be a global problem: economically, socially, and a pandemic. This article is intended to provide a general description of the current situation related to the coronavirus outbreak and not to provide medical advice.
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Maintaining a normal healthy immune defense system lowers the incidence and/or the severity of symptoms and/or the duration of common cold (CC). Physical barriers and innate and adaptive immunity have been involved during a CC episode. Vitamins C and D, zinc, and Echinacea have evidence-based efficacy on these immune system barriers. This review includes 82 eligible studies to consider the preventive role of these nutrients in immune clusters and in CC to provide advice on dosage and assumption of these nutrients. Regarding vitamin C, regular supplementation (1 to 2 g/day) has shown that vitamin C reduces the duration (in adults by 8%, in children by 14%) and the severity of CC. Considering zinc, the supplementation may shorten the duration of colds by approximately 33%. CC patients may be instructed to try zinc within 24 hours of onset of symptoms. As for vitamin D, the supplementation protected against CC overall, considering baseline levels and age. Patients with vitamin D deficiency and those not receiving bolus doses experienced the most benefit. Regarding Echinacea , prophylactic treatment with this extract (2400 mg/day) over 4 months appeared to be beneficial for preventing/treating CC. In conclusion, the current evidence of efficacy for zinc, vitamins D and C, and Echinacea is so interesting that CC patients may be encouraged to try them for preventing/treating their colds, although further studies are needed on this topic.
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The combination of trimethoprim and sulfamethoxazole (TMP-SMX) is the most effective regimen for therapy of Pneumocystis pneumonia (PcP). As many patients with PcP are allergic or do not respond to it, efforts have been devoted to develop alternative therapies for PcP. We have found that the combination of vitamin D3 (VitD3; 300 IU/kg/day) and PMQ (5 mg/kg/day) was as effective as TMP-SMX for therapy of PcP. In this study, we investigated the mechanisms by which vitamin D enhances the efficacy of PMQ. C57BL/6 mice were immunosuppressed by CD4 ⁺ cell depletion, infected with P. murina for eight weeks, and then treated for 9 days with the combination of VitD3 and PMQ (VitD3-PMQ) or with TMP-SMX or PMQ to serve as controls. Results showed that vitamin D supplementation increased the number of CD11c ⁺ cells; suppressed the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IFNγ, and IL-6) and iNOS; and enhanced the expression of genes related to anti-oxidation (glutathione reductase and glutamate-cysteine ligase modifier subunit), anti-microbial peptides (cathelicidin), and autophagy (ATG5 and Beclin-1). These results suggest that the main action of vitamin D is enhancing the ability of the host to defend Pneumocystis infection.
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The authors regret that in Table 3 (row 5, column 2), the date of the WHO declaring a Public Health Emergency of International Concern is incorrect. It should be 30th January 2020, not 30th December 2019, as is correctly presented at section 1.1. The authors would like to apologise for any inconvenience caused.
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Background: Ulcerative Colitis (UC) is a chronic recurrent inflammation of the colon. It has been proposed that the UC pathogenesis may be related to vitamin D deficiency and/or vitamin D administration in UC patients may have an ameliorating effect on the intestinal inflammation. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of vitamin D on the serum levels of immune cytokines in UC patients. Methods: In this double-blind randomized controlled trial 90 mild to moderate UC patients were assigned to get either a single muscular injection of 7.5 mg vitamin D3 or 1 ml normal saline as placebo. Three months later serum levels of IL-4, IL-10, IL-12p70, IFN-γ, and TNF-α were measured. Two group variables were compared using independent t-test and analysis of covariance (ANCOVA). Results: There was a significant increase in vitamin D only in the vitamin D group. Compared to placebo, vitamin D had significant decreasing effects on serum TNF-α, IFN-γ, and IL12p70 levels, but it had no significant effect on serum levels of IL4 and IL10. Conclusion: Vitamin D seems to inhibit Th1 immune responses, and have no effect on Th2 responses. The findings of this study support several in vitro studies, which suggest a therapeutic immunomodulatory potential of vitamin D. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
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Vitamin D and the vitamin D receptor (VDR) have been shown to be important regulators of the immune system. In particular, vitamin D and VDR deficiency exacerbates experimental autoimmune diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). IBD develops due to an immune-mediated attack by pathogenic T-cells that overproduce IL-17 and IFN-gamma and a few regulatory cells. VDR knockout mice have twice as many T-cells making IL-17 and IFN-gamma than wild-type mice. In addition, vitamin D and the VDR are required for normal numbers of regulatory T-cells (iNKT and CD8alphaalpha) that have been shown to suppress experimental IBD. In the absence of vitamin D and the VDR, autoimmunity occurs in the gastrointestinal tract due to increased numbers of IL-17 and IFN-gamma secreting T-cells and a concomitant reduction in regulatory T-cells.