The Association of Vitamin D Levels with the Extent and Severity of Coronary Artery Disease

Abstract

Aims: Vitamin D is known for its primary role in calcium and bone homeostasis and regulation of parathyroid hormone (PTH) secretion. There is increasing evidence for health benefits accomplished by activated vitamin D, that go beyond these classical functions. Previous studies have suggested that lower Vitamin D levels are associated with increased cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate relationship between vit D levels and extent and severity of coronary artery disease. Study Design: Cross-sectional. Place and Duration of Study: Sample: Department of Cardiology, Bagcilar Training and Research Hospital between November 2009 and march 2010. Methodology: We evaluated 135 patients who underwent elective coronary angiography between November 2009 and march 2010. Patients with renal failure(GFR less than 60ml/min per 1.73m2),  history of malignancy within the past 5 years, any predominant non-cardiac disease, patients using any vitamin D supplement or with hyperparathyroidism or hypercalcemia were excluded. The severity and extent of CAD were determined using the Gensini score. And, patients were classified as having advanced (≥40) or mild (<40) CAD according to the Gensini scores. Results: The mean 25-OH D concentration was 18.7ng/mL. The overall prevalence of 25-OH D less then 15ng/mL was 34,8%(n=47), with 11% having 25-OH D less then 10ng/mL. Multivariate analysis revaeled that smoking, presence of hyperlipidemia, higher CRP levels, higher ALP levels and  low levels of 25-OH D concentrations were significantly associated with higher Gensini Scores. Conclusion: In our study, we found significant correlation between low vitamin D levels and higher Gensini scores.