Multiple sclerosis, osteoporosis, and vitamin D

J Neurol Sci. 2009 Dec 15;287(1-2):1-6. doi: 10.1016/j.jns.2009.09.012. Epub 2009 Oct 2.

Abstract

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is associated with reduced bone mass and higher frequency of osteoporosis. Although high-dose short-term intravenous glucocorticoid regimens cause a decrease in bone formation, this effect is usually reversible and osteoporosis in MS patients may be independent of the short-term corticosteroid treatment. Clinical evidence suggests an important role of vitamin D as a modifiable risk factor in MS. Low circulating levels of vitamin D have been found in MS patients, especially during relapses, suggesting that vitamin D could be involved in the regulation of the clinical disease activity. Vitamin D mediates its function through a single vitamin D receptor (VDR). Polymorphisms of the VDR have major effects on vitamin D function and metabolism, and some VDR genotypes have been linked to osteoporosis and MS. Because the safety of high doses of vitamin D has not been established yet, vitamin D hasn't been used in enough doses to increase the serum level to a desired therapeutic target. Future clinical trials should determine the upper limit of vitamin D intake in order to achieve therapeutic benefit in MS patients.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adrenal Cortex Hormones / adverse effects
  • Animals
  • Bone and Bones / metabolism
  • Bone and Bones / physiopathology
  • Comorbidity
  • Female
  • Genetic Predisposition to Disease / genetics
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Multiple Sclerosis / epidemiology*
  • Multiple Sclerosis / genetics
  • Multiple Sclerosis / metabolism
  • Osteoporosis / epidemiology*
  • Osteoporosis / genetics
  • Osteoporosis / metabolism
  • Receptors, Calcitriol / genetics
  • Vitamin D / metabolism
  • Vitamin D / therapeutic use
  • Vitamin D Deficiency / epidemiology*
  • Vitamin D Deficiency / genetics
  • Vitamin D Deficiency / metabolism

Substances

  • Adrenal Cortex Hormones
  • Receptors, Calcitriol
  • Vitamin D