Vitamin D deficiency
Chapter 4:Endocrine, nutritional and metabolic diseases
ICD-10 E55 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of vitamin d deficiency.
Vitamin D deficiency is a condition characterized by insufficient levels of vitamin D in the body, which is crucial for maintaining bone health and calcium homeostasis. This deficiency can lead to a variety of health issues, including osteomalacia in adults and rickets in children. Vitamin D is primarily obtained through sunlight exposure, dietary sources, and supplements. Risk factors for deficiency include limited sun exposure, certain medical conditions (such as malabsorption syndromes), and dietary restrictions. Symptoms may include bone pain, muscle weakness, and increased risk of fractures. Diagnosis typically involves measuring serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels. Treatment often includes dietary modifications, increased sun exposure, and vitamin D supplementation. It is essential for healthcare providers to monitor patients for potential complications associated with long-term deficiency, such as osteoporosis and cardiovascular diseases.
Thorough documentation of patient history, laboratory results, and treatment plans.
Patients with osteoporosis, metabolic bone disease, or chronic kidney disease.
Consideration of other endocrine disorders that may affect vitamin D metabolism.
Detailed growth and development assessments, dietary history, and family history.
Infants and children with rickets or growth delays.
Monitoring for developmental milestones and dietary intake in breastfed infants.
Often ordered alongside vitamin D testing to assess overall metabolic health.
Document the reason for testing and any relevant patient history.
Endocrinologists may frequently order this panel for patients with metabolic disorders.
Used to confirm vitamin D deficiency diagnosis.
Ensure lab results are included in the patient's medical record.
Pediatricians may order this test for children with growth issues.
Common symptoms include bone pain, muscle weakness, fatigue, and an increased risk of fractures. Some individuals may not exhibit symptoms until the deficiency is severe.
Diagnosis is typically made through a blood test measuring serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels. Levels below 20 ng/mL are generally considered deficient.
Dietary sources include fatty fish (like salmon and mackerel), fortified dairy products, egg yolks, and mushrooms exposed to UV light.
Treatment often involves vitamin D supplementation, dietary changes, and increased sun exposure. The specific dosage and duration depend on the severity of the deficiency.
