Hypervitaminosis D

Definition:

Hypervitaminosis D symptoms appear several months after excessive doses of vitamin D are administered.

Alternative Names:

Vitamin D toxicity

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

An excess of vitamin D causes abnormally high blood concentrations of calcium which can eventually cause severe damage to the bones, soft tissues, and kidneys. It is almost always associated with forms of vitamin D requiring a doctor's prescription.

Symptoms:

Signs and tests:

Tests to confirm the diagnosis:

calcium - serum
phosphorus - serum
25 hydroxyVitamin D levels
1,25 dihydroxyVitamin D levels
X-ray of the bone(s) (focusing on the long bones)

Treatment:

Stop vitamin D intake. Consult your physician. In severe cases, other therapy may be necessary.

Expectations (prognosis):

Recovery is expected.

Complications:

kidney damage
kidney stones

Calling your health care provider:

Call your health care provider if you or your child show symptoms of hypervitaminosis D and you have been taking vitamin D in excess of the recommended daily allowance or have been taking a prescription form of vitamin D.

Prevention:

To prevent this condition, pay careful attention to appropriate vitamin D intake.

Review Date: 3/2/2002
Reviewed By: Todd T. Brown, M.D., Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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