Impact of supplemental vitamins and natural honey for treatment of COVID-19: A review

Abstract The main aim of the paper is to assess whether vitamin C, vitamin D, and natural honey can be administered in the course of the COVID-19 pandemic for promising in line methods with recent evidence. Both systematic literature and clinical trial identification were conducted by searching various databases. A total 58 articles and 29 clinical trials were selected wherein 11 for vitamin C, 16 for vitamin D, and 2 for natural honey were identified for analysis. The high doses of vitamin C (i.e. '200 mg/kg body weight/day, divided into 4 doses') has been found to reduce COVID-19 lung damage, various flu infections. Additionally, the high doses of vitamin C can shorten around 7.8% stay in the intensive care unit. At the same time, vitamin D can effectively protect from lung injury and acute respiratory infections whereas vitamin D deficiency severely affects 75% of the institutionalized people (serum 25(OH) D < 25 nmol/L). Meanwhile, natural honey which contains proteins (0.1-0.4%); ash (0.2%); water (15-17%) has potential antiviral effects and the ability to improve immunity. Therefore, the administration of vitamins and honey is the promising evidence-based approach for reducing fatalities, saving lives, and bringing the COVID-19 pandemic to a rapid end. It is believed that the utilization of vitamin C, vitamin D, and natural honey with the current treatment may be effective in treating COVID-19-caused fatal complications such as pneumonia. Therefore, high-level clinical studies are required on COVID-19 to administrate the effects of vitamins and natural honey

Caracterización de pacientes con osteoporosis tratadas con Vitamina D 100. 000 UI mensualmente / Characterization of patients with osteoporosis treated with Vitamin D 100,000 IU monthly

Introducción: La vitamina D en la piel tras la exposición solar se constituye en precursor y agente anabólico óseo que esti- mula el transporte activo de calcio a través de la mucosa intestinal. La Sociedad Europea de Aspectos Clínicos y Económicos de la osteoporosis y osteoartritis, recomienda que pacientes postmenopáusicas con niveles de 25 (OH) D menores de 50 nmol/L reciban suplementación entre 800 y 1000 UI diarias de vitamina D. Objetivo: Determinar en mujeres con osteoporosis el cambio porcentual de 25 (OH) D en sangre, con la administración de 100.000 UI. de vitamina D cápsulas una vez al mes, así como seguridad y grado de satisfacción con el tratamiento. Sujetos y métodos: Estudio observacional, descriptivo, longitudinal, en el que se incluyeron 44 mujeres que recibieron 100.000 UI de vitamina D una vez al mes por tres meses. Se realizó control de laboratorio pre y post-tratamiento a una sub- muestra no probabilística de 10 pacientes. Resultados: El 70% de casos refirió no tener comorbilidades. El valor inicial de vitamina D en la sub-muestra fue 23,5±10,1nmol/l; al final el promedio fue 27,2±9,6 nmol/l. Post-tratamiento los niveles de vitamina D aumentaron un 20% en más del 50% de casos. El 93% de casos no refirieron eventos adversos. Los eventos adversos reportados fueron gastro-intestinales, eventos ósteo-articulares y cefalea. La mayoría de casos reportaron encontrarse satisfechos con el tratamiento. Conclusión: El tratamiento fue muy bien tolerado, la mayoría de casos refirieron estar satisfechos con el tratamiento. Se observaron incrementos porcentuales significativos de 25 (OH) D en sangre luego de 12 semanas de tratamiento. Palabras clave: Vitamina D, osteoporosis, caracterización.

"Introduction: Vitamin D in the skin after sun exposure constitutes precursor and bone anabolic agent that stimulates the active transport of calcium through the intestinal mucosa. The European Society for Clinical and Economic Aspects of Os- teoporosis and Osteoarthritis, recommends that postmenopausal patients with 25 (OH) D levels less than 50 nmol / L receive supplementation between 800 and 1000 IU daily of vitamin D. Objective: Determine in women with osteoporosis the percentage change of 25 (OH) vitamin D in blood, with the adminis-tration of 100,000 IU of vitamin D caps once a month, as well as safety and degree of satisfaction with the treatment. Subjects and methods: Observational, descriptive and longitudinal study, which included 44 women who received 100,000 IU of vitamin D once a month for three months. Pre and Post-treatment laboratory control was performed on a non-proba- bilistic subsample of 10 patients. Results: The 70% of cases reported not having comorbidities. The initial value of vitamin D was 23.5 ± 10.1 nmol/l at the end the average was 27.2 ± 9.6 nmol/l in the subsample. Post-treatment increased Vit D. levels 20.4% in more than 50% of cases, 93% of cases did not report adverse events. The adverse events reported were gastro-intestinal, osteo-articular events and headache. The majority of cases reported being satisfied with the treatment. Conclusion: Treatment was very well tolerated, the majority of cases reported being satisfied with the treatment. Significant percentage increases of 25 (OH) D were observed in blood after 12 weeks of treatment. Key words: Vitamin D, osteoporosis, characterization."

Mitos y realidades sobre el aporte de lácteos y calcio / Myths and facts about dairy foods and calcium supplementation

Desde una perspectiva histórica, el consumo de leche de otros mamíferos y sus derivados ha jugado un rol importante en el desarrollo de la sociedad humana. Sin embargo, en los últimos años se han planteado dudas respecto al real beneficio del consumo de productos lácteos y suplementos de calcio en la salud ósea. Más aún, se les han atribuido potenciales efectos adversos como el incremento del riesgo cardiovascular, aumento en la incidencia de cáncer, trastornos digestivos, nefrolitiasis y una mayor mortalidad. Si bien la evidencia disponible puede ser controversial, en la mayoría de los casos desmiente categóricamente estas afirmaciones.En esta revisión de la literatura, intentamos despejar las inquietudes respecto al beneficio y riesgo del consumo de lácteos, suplementos de calcio y Vitamina D.

From the historical perspective, milk and dairy product consumption has played an important role in the development of human society. However, in the recent years, some doubts have been raised regarding the benefits of dairy food consumption and calcium supplements on bone health. Additionally, potential adverse effects have been attributed to their use, such as increased cardiovascular risk, increased incidence of cancer, digestive troubles, nephrolithiasis and increased mortality rate. Although the available evidence may be controversial, in most cases it categorically refutes these statements.In this review of the literature, we try to address concerns regarding benefit and risks of consumption of dairy products, calcium and vitamin D supplements.

Intoxicação por vitamina D em paciente idosa: relato de caso / Vitamin D intoxication in an older adult: case report

As aging progresses, there is a consequent increase in chronic diseases, such as osteoporosis and osteopenia, and vitamin D (cholecalciferol) supplementation is routinely prescribed. However, indiscriminate use of this supplement can lead to intoxication and systemic changes. Seeking to raise awareness among prescribing physicians and especially older patients, the purpose of this case report was to describe the systemic symptoms and damage that can occur from intoxication due to uncontrolled use of vitamin D, such as hypercalcemia and kidney injury. This report describes the case of an older woman who reported using a cholecalciferol- containing formula for ten years to treat osteoarthritis. She arrived at the hospital with weight loss, acute kidney injury and hypercalcemia. After ruling out neoplastic diseases, she was diagnosed with vitamin D poisoning. The symptoms and laboratory results improved after treatment. Based on this report, we conclude that geriatricians play a key role in demystifying the use of vitamins and should only prescribe them when medically indicated.

Com a progressão do envelhecimento e, consequentemente, o aumento de doenças crônicas, como osteoporose e osteopenia, a suplementação da vitamina D (colecalciferol) tem sido rotineiramente prescrita, no entanto o uso indiscriminado e o não controle dessa reposição podem levar à intoxicação e, consequentemente, a alterações sistêmicas. Buscando conscientizar médicos prescritores, e principalmente pacientes idosos, o objetivo do relato do caso foi de alertar sobre o uso desregrado e divulgar os diversos sintomas sistêmicos, além dos danos dessa intoxicação, como hipercalcemia e lesão renal. Este relato trata do caso de uma idosa que afirmava usar fórmula contendo colecalciferol há dez anos para tratar osteoartrite. Chegou ao hospital com emagrecimento, lesão renal aguda e hipercalcemia. Após descartar doenças neoplásicas, foi diagnosticada com intoxicação de vitamina D. Feito tratamento, houve remissão sintomatológica e laboratorial. Com base nesse relato, concluímos que o geriatra tem um papel fundamental de desmistificar o uso de vitaminas e prescrever estritamente quando há indicação médica.

Use of active metabolites of vitamin D orally for the treatment of psoriasis

SUMMARY Objective: The objective of this study was to analyse the existing bibliographic production on clinical trials related to the use of vitamin D for oral treatment of psoriasis. Method: A literature review of clinical trials related to the use of vitamin D for oral treatment of psoriasis, published in the LILACS, Scielo, Medline, PubMed and Cochrane Library from 1986 to 2013. The search included the following terms: "Psoriasis and oral Vitamin D"; "psoríase e vitamina D oral". Results: After analysing the titles and summaries, 10 articles met the eligibility criteria. Discussion: According to the literature, most tests were made in moderate psoriasis with doses ranging from 0.25 to 2μg, demonstrating improvement with this treatment modality. Some studies suggest the use of high doses, but the biggest concern is hypercalciuria as a side effect. Conclusion: The use of active metabolites of vitamin D orally for the treatment of psoriasis showed efficacy and safety.

RESUMO OBJETIVO: O objetivo deste estudo foi analisar a produção bibliográfica existente sobre os ensaios clínicos relacionados ao uso da vitamina D para tratamento por via oral da psoríase. MÉTODOS: Revisão de literatura de ensaios clínicos relacionados ao uso de vitamina D para tratamento por via oral da psoríase publicados no Lilacs, SciELO, MedLine, PubMed e Biblioteca Cochrane no período de 1986 a 2013. A pesquisa incluiu os seguintes termos: "Psoriasis and oral Vitamin D"; "psoríase e vitamina D oral". RESULTADOS: Depois de analisar os títulos e resumos, dez artigos preencheram os critérios de elegibilidade. DISCUSSÃO: Segundo a literatura, a maioria dos ensaios foi realizada na psoríase moderada, com dose que varia de 0,25 a 2 μg, demonstrando melhora com esta modalidade terapêutica. Alguns estudos sugerem o uso de doses elevadas, porém a maior preocupação é a hipercalciúria como efeito colateral. CONCLUSÃO: O uso de metabólitos ativos de vitamina D por via oral para o tratamento da psoríase demonstrou eficácia e segurança com relação aos efeitos colaterais.

Hypercalcemia and acute renal insufficiency following use of a veterinary supplement / Hipercalcemia e insuficiência renal aguda após uso de suplemento veterinário

Abstract A previously healthy 24 yo male presented with a two-month history of epigastric pain, nausea, vomiting, fatigue and malaise. He reported abuse of different substances, including an injectable veterinary vitamin compound, which contains high doses of vitamin A, D and E, and an oily vehicle that induces local edema and enhances muscle volume. Serum creatinine was 3.1 mg/dL, alanine transaminase 160 mg/dL, aspartate transaminase 11 mg/dL, total testosterone 23 ng/dL, 25-OH-vitamin D >150 ng/mL (toxicity >100), 1,25-OH-vitamin D 80 pg/mL, vitamin A 0.7 mg/dL, parathormone <3 pg/mL, total calcium 13.6 mg/dL, 24-hour urinary calcium 635 mg/24h (RV 42-353). A urinary tract ultrasound demonstrated signs of parenchymal nephropathy. The diagnosis was hypercalcemia and acute renal failure secondary to vitamin D intoxication. He was initially treated with intravenous hydration, furosemide and prednisone. On the fifth day of hospitalization a dose of pamidronate disodium was added. The patient evolved with serum calcium and renal function normalization. Thirty days later he presented normal clinical and laboratory tests, except 25-OH-vitamin D that was persistently increased (107 ng/mL), as it may take several months to normalize. This case report is a warning of the risks related to the use of veterinary substances for aesthetics purposes.

Resumo Um paciente de 24 anos do sexo masculino, previamente hígido, apresentou-se com uma história de dois meses de dor epigástrica, náuseas, vômitos, fadiga e mal-estar. Ele relatava abuso de diferentes substâncias, incluindo um composto vitamínico veterinário injetável contendo altas doses de vitamina A, D e E, e um veículo oleoso que induz edema local com aumento de volume muscular. A creatinina sérica estava 3,1 mg/dL, alanina transaminase 160 mg/dL, aspartato transaminase 11 mg/dL, testosterona total 23 ng/dL, 25-OH-vitamina D > 150 ng/mL (toxicidade > 100), 1,25-OH-vitamina D 80 pg/mL, vitamina A 0,7 mg/dL, paratormônio < 3 pg/mL, cálcio total 13,6 mg/dL, cálcio urinário de 24h 635 mg/24h (VR 42-353). Uma ultrassonografia do trato urinário demonstrou sinais de nefropatia parenquimatosa. O diagnóstico foi hipercalcemia e insuficiência renal aguda secundária a intoxicação por vitamina D. Ele foi tratado inicialmente com hidratação intravenosa, furosemida e prednisona. No quinto dia de hospitalização uma dose de pamidronato dissódico foi adicionada. O paciente evoluiu com normalização do cálcio sérico e da função renal. Trinta dias depois ele apresentou testes clínicos e laboratoriais normais, exceto a 25-OH-vitamina D que estava persistentemente elevada (107 ng/mL), já que ela pode demorar vários meses para normalizar. Este relato de caso é um alerta aos riscos relacionados ao uso de substâncias veterinárias para fins estéticos.

Controversias sobre el rastreo de los niveles séricos de vitamina D y su suplementación / Controversies about serum vitamin D levels screening and its supplementation

Si bien los niveles bajos de vitamina D se han asociado con varios resultados de interés en salud, aún resulta motivo de controversia qué significa un nivel bajo, cual es la utilidad de su suplementación y cuales son sus potenciales efectos adversos. En ese contexto, se realizó en el Servicio de Medicina Familiar y Comunitaria del Hospital Italiano un taller de discusión denominado "Actividad ECCO" (Evidencia Científica en la Clínica Cotidiana) en la que fueron presentados los resulta-dos de estudios identificados que hubieran comparado el uso de vitamina D (con o sin suplementación de calcio) ver-sus placebo, con el objetivo de discutir cuál es la evidencia actual para el rastreo de deficiencia de vitamina D y para, eventualmente, recomendar o no su suplementación. Este artículo resume la evidencia identificada y las conclusiones consensuadas en dicha actividad. (AU)

Although low levels of vitamin D have been associated with several health outcomes, it is controversial what a low level means, the usefulness of its supplementation and its potential adverse effects. In this context, a workshop called "ECCO Activity" (Scientific Evidence in the Daily Clinic) was held in the Family and Community Medicine Division of Hospital Italiano de Buenos Aires, where the results of identified studies that compared the use of vitamin D (with or without calcium supplementation) versus placebo, with the aim of discussing what is the current evidence for screening of vitamin D deficiency and to, eventually, recommend or not its supplementation. This article summarizes the identified evidence and the agreed conclusions in that activity. (AU)

Hypovitaminosis D in patients with Crohn's disease / Hipovitaminose D em pacientes portadores da doença de Crohn

Objective: Vitamin D has been widely studied as a mediator of the immune response, becoming evident the prevalence of hypovitaminosis D in patients with Crohn's disease. This work aims at evaluating the serum levels of vitamin D in patients suffering from Crohn's disease in a southeast region of Brazil. Methods: It is a prospective study, with statistical analysis of the values of serum vitamin D measured between April 2014 and April 2015 in patients with Crohn's disease. Individuals with mild anal complaints, without any colorectal involvement, comprised the control group. Results: One hundred and four patients whose average age was 40.6 years were evaluated, being 56 (53.8%) female and 48 (46.2%) male. The average serum vitamin D level was 21.6 ng/mL, with standard deviation 13.85. The control group was comprised by 66 individuals, whose average age was 48.9 years. With 38 (57.6%) female and 28 (42.4%) male. In this group the average serum vitamin D level was 40.9 ng/mL. Statistical significance was demonstrated with p<0.0001. Conclusion: There was high prevalence of hypovitaminosis D in patients with Chron's disease, when compared to the control group. Hypovitaminosis D was not evidenced in patients in the latter group.

Objetivo: A vitamina D tem sido amplamente estudada como mediadora da resposta imune, tornando-se evidente a prevalência de hipovitaminose D em pacientes com doença de Crohn. Este trabalho objetiva avaliar os níveis séricos de vitamina D nos pacientes com portadores de doença de Crohn em uma região do sudeste do Brasil. Métodos: Trata-se de estudo prospectivo, com análise estatística dos valores da vitamina D sérica dosados entre Abril de 2014 e Abril de 2015 em pacientes com doença de Crohn. Indivíduos com queixas anais leves, sem qualquer acometimento colorretal, compuseram o grupo controle. Resultados: Foram avaliados 104 pacientes, cuja média de idade foi de 40,6 anos, sendo 56 (53,8%) mulheres e 48 (46,2%) homens. O nível sérico de vitamina D médio foi 21,6 ng/mL, com desvio-padrão de 13,85. O grupo controle foi composto por 66 indivíduos, cuja média de idade foi 48,9 anos, com 38 (57,6%) mulheres e 28 (42,4%) homens. Neste grupo o nível sérico médio de vitamina D foi 40,9 ng/mL. Foi demonstrada significância estatística com p<0,0001. Conclusão: Houve elevada prevalência de hipovitaminose D em pacientes com doença de Crohn, quando comparados ao grupo controle. Não foi evidenciada hipovitaminose D entre os pacientes deste último grupo.

Vitamin D axis and its role in skin carcinogenesis: a comprehensive review

Vitamin D (VD) is a secosteroid hormone that is mainly synthesized in the skin upon exposure to UVB radiation. VD is widely known for its role in calcium metabolism; however, multiple endocrine, paracrine and autocrine functions of VD have been described, including a prominent role on carcinogenesis. In recent years, multiple associations between VD deficiency and different types of cancer have been described, supported by evidence of anti-proliferative, anti-angiogenic, pro-apoptotic, cell-differentiating and anti-invasive effects of this hormone. An immunomodulatory role of VD associated to cancer microenvironment has also been suggested. Regarding skin cancer, it has been shown that VD inhibits tumor development in basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma in vitro. Some studies have suggested that lower VD levels may be a risk factor for skin cancer, while others have shown the opposite; there is also preliminary evidence on the role of VD supplementation for the prevention of melanoma in vivo. In this review, we explore the mechanisms of VD effects on carcinogenesis and the available scientific evidence of the interplay between VD and the genesis of both non-melanoma and melanoma skin cancer. (AU)

Hipercalcemia e lesão renal aguda causadas por abuso de um composto veterinário parenteral contendo vitaminas A, D e E / Hypercalcemia and acute kidney injury caused by abuse of a parenteral veterinary compound containing vitamins A, D, and E

Um rapaz de 19 anos, previamente hígido, procurou o hospital com queixas de anorexia, náuseas e vômitos. Exames laboratoriais revelaram hipercalcemia (valor máximo do cálcio de 14,8 mg/dL) e lesão renal aguda (valor máximo da creatinina de 2,88 mg/dL). O paciente admitiu utilizar uma formulação parenteral de vitaminas A, D e E de uso exclusivo veterinário, contendo 20.000.000 UI de vitamina A; 5.000.000 UI de vitamina D3 e 6.800 UI de vitamina E, por ampola de 100 mL. Ele refere ter usado cerca de 300 mL do produto no último ano. O jovem não estava interessado na quantidade maciça de vitaminas contida no produto, mas apenas no efeito local do veículo oleoso; o edema provocado pela injeção simulava um aumento de massa muscular. O produto, no entanto, foi absorvido e causou hipervitaminose. O nível sérico de 25(OH) vitamina D estava claramente elevado em 150 ng/mL (referência de 30 a 60 ng/mL), mas não tanto quanto em outros casos publicados de intoxicação por vitamina D. A maioria dos casos de hipercalcemia por hipervitaminose D se associa a níveis de 25 (OH)D bem maiores do que 200 ng/mL. O PTH estava indetectável, e outras causas de hipercalcemia foram excluídas. Deste modo, conclui-se que a gravidade da hipercalcemia encontrada neste caso foi resultado do efeito sinérgico da intoxicação pelas vitaminas A e D. O paciente foi tratado com soro fisiológico, furosemida e ácido zolendrônico e evoluiu com normalização rápida dos níveis séricos de cálcio e da função renal.

A previously healthy 19 year-old male presented to the hospital with anorexia, nausea, and vomiting. Laboratory studies were significant for hypercalcemia (peak calcium value of 14.8 mg/dL) and acute kidney injury (peak serum creatinine of 2.88 mg/dL). He admitted to using a parenteral formulation of vitamins A, D and E restricted for veterinary use containing 20,000,000 IU of vitamin A; 5,000,000 IU of vitamin D3; and 6,800 IU of vitamin E per 100 mL vial. The patient stated to have used close to 300 mL of the product over the preceding year. Interestingly, the young man was not interested in the massive amounts of vitamins that the product contained; he was only after the local effects of the oily vehicle. The swelling produced by the injection resulted in a silicone-like effect, which gave the impression of bigger muscles. Nevertheless, the product was absorbed and caused hypervitaminosis. The serum level of 25(OH) vitamin D was clearly elevated at 150 ng/mL (reference range from 30 to 60 ng/mL), but in most published cases of vitamin D toxicity, serum levels have been well above 200 ng/mL. His PTH level was undetectable and other potential causes of hypercalcemia were excluded. Therefore, we posit that the severity of the hypercalcemia observed in this case was the result of a synergistic effect of vitamins A and D. The patient was treated with normal saline, furosemide and zolendronic acid, with rapid normalization of calcium levels and renal function.

Vitamin D supplementation: optimal dose, real benefits and potential side effects [review article]

Vitamin D, is a lipid- soluble vitamin obtained from both exogenous and endogenous sources. Vitamin D3 is found naturally contains vitamin D, but other dietary sources of Vitamin D are from the fortified foods, like milk and cereals, or from nutritional supplements. In recent years, rickets and Osteomalacia are reappearing, not only in temperate zones with limited sunshine but also in sunnier climates such as Australia, the USA, Ethiopia, Lebanon and Saudi Arabia. Research results strongly suggested that 1,25[OH]2D3 may have a direct action through its receptor in the parathyroid glands. The presence of receptor has led to a study of the possible function of vitamin D in these organs. A good example of a new function described for 1, 25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 is that found in the parathyroid gland, this is also true for the role of vitamin D hormone in skin, the immune system, a possible role in the pancreas, i.e., in the islet cells, and a possible role in female reproduction. Many studies have examined the relationship between Vitamin D levels and cardiovascular disease, metabolic, immune system and cancer risk. With the reemergence of hypovitaminosis D among adults and elderly age group, questions regarding the most appropriate treatment regimen require clarifications. Multiple treatment regimens have been proposed to treat hypo-vitaminosis D in young children and adults, including the daily or weekly, yearly orally and parental routes. New megadoses therapies have been used recently. We would like to highlight the recent evidence regarding their uses and safety

harmful effect of chronic hypervitaminosis D[3] on the skin and cardiac muscle of albino rat. A histological study

Is to investigate the effect of hypervitaminosis D[3] on the skin and cardiac muscle of albino rats. Eighteen adult male albino rats were used in this study. Rats were divided into two main groups. Group I [6 rats] served as a control group. Group II. [12 rats] to which vitamin D[3] were administered in a daily dose of 50,000 IU/kg body weight and subdivided into two subgroups. [Subgroup IIa] 6 rats received the preparation for two weeks and [Subgroup IIb]: 6 rats received the preparation for eight weeks. At the end of experimental periods, specimens were taken from the skin covering the back and the left ventricles of the heart of each animal. Animals of subgroup IIa showed epidermal affection as focal areas of decreased number of epidermal layers except for thickened stratum corneum, widening of the intercellular spaces between keratinocytes, loosened desmosomal junctions and microvillous transformation of the plasma membrane. These changes were marked and diffuse in animals of subgroup IIb. Layers beneath the stratum corneum were only one or two layers. Keratinocytes showed affection of the nuclei. The cytoplasm showed increased cytokeratin filaments and keratohyaline granules. Stratum corneum appeared thickened with wide spaces in between its layers and failure to form intact wavy bundles. Increased deposition of collagen bundles were noticeable in the dermis of most animals of this subgroup. The cardiac muscle of subgroup IIa showed damage of muscle fibers with widening of the spaces in between and interstitial odema, Breaking of continuity of myofibrils at the site of I band, partial degradation of Z-line material in many sarcomeres, thinning of myofibrils and mitochondrial swelling. The sarcolemma appeared lifted away from the underlying sarcomeres. Rats of subgroup IIb presented aggravation of these changes with severe cardiac muscle damage. Some cardiac myocytes appeared thinned with dark shrunken nuclei, others revealed dissolution with either karyolytic or pyknotic nuclei. Dehiscence of the intercalated disc with widened disc space, contraction bands with subsequent shrinkage of the sarcomere were also observed. Many myofibrils were disorganized, distorted and fragmented. The use of excessive doses of vitamin D resulted in severe damage to the skin and cardiac muscle. The use of vitamins should be restricted for individuals with documented deficiency or those at risk, especially fat-soluble vitamins because of their cummulative effect in the body

Revisäo: efeitos imunomoduladores da vitamina D / Revision: immunomodulator effect of vitamin D

A forma ativa da vitamina D apresenta efeitos imunomoduladores observados sobre a populaçäo de linfócitos,macrófagos e células citotóxicas naturais (natural Liller) e sobre a produ135132o e a açäo de citocinas tanto in vivo quanto in vitro. Esses efeitos säo observados em modelos experimentais de doençäas autoimunes através da melhora clínica e histológica das lesöes, em neoplasias, nas quais verifica-se a reduçäo do volume de tumores sólidos, e em transplantes, com o aumento da sobrevida dos enxertos, o que torna a vitamina D um possível imunossupressor para futura utilizaçäo clínica

Raquitismo: revisäo de literatura e relato de um caso clínico / Rickets: a review of the literature and report of a clinical case

O presente trabalho relata e discute um caso clínico de raquitismo. Descreve suas manifestaçöes sistêmicas e bucais, as formas de tratamento e a importância do diagnóstico precoce da doença através dos sinais clínicos e radiográficos na cavidade oral

Efecto de dos formas de suplementación de vitamina D en el crecimiento y metabolismo óseo del lactante / Effects of 2 ways of vitamin D supplementation on infant growth and bone metabolism

Se evaluó el efecto sobre el metabolismo óseo y crecimiento del lactante menor de suplementos de vitamina D de 600.000 UI en el primero y sexto mes (norma ministerial) ante una dosis diaria de 400 UI hasta el sexto mes, en dos grupos de lactantes normales. En controles mensuales se midieron peso, talla, circunferencia craneana, presión arterial, calcemia, fosfemia, fosfatasas alcalinas, hormona paratiroidea y 1.25 (OH)2 vit D. Se encontraron diferencias estadísticamente significativas en favor de los niños que recibían 400 UI diariamente, a contar del tercer mes en la talla, del sexto mes en el peso y del octavo mes en la circunsferencia craneana. La presión arterial fue más alta en los pacientes que recibieron megadosis semestrales de la vitamina, especialmente 30, 60, 90 y 120 días, después de la primera de ellas. La concentración plasmática media de 1,25 (OH)2 vit D fue más alta en los casos tratados con megadosis (110 y 96 pg/ml en el primero y el sexto mes respectivamente), que en los que recibía dosis diarias (55 pg/ml en el primero y sexto mes). No se encontraron diferencias en las restantes variables sanguíneas analizadas. La administración de 400 UI diarias es más fisiológica, promueve mayor crecimiento, evita riesgos de intoxicación a corto plazo y potencial a largo plazo por la hipertensión inducida a esta edad. La norma ministerial debiera ser revisada

Calcipotriol: una breve revisión / Calcipotriol: an short review

El ungüento de calcipotriol (50 mcg/g) es un tratamiento eficaz y seguro para la psoriasis. Probablemente actúa por regulación directa de los queratinocitos, inhibiendo la proliferación y aumentando su diferenciación. Debe ser aplicado dos veces al día de tal manera que menos de 100 g a la semana sean usados. Es tan eficaz como la betametasona y la antralina y es preferido por los pacientes. La irritación lesional y perilesional es común, pero los efectos adversos serios son raros. El calcipotriol ha sido usado en forma exitosa asociado con UVB, PUVA y ciclosporina en estudios preliminares. El calcio sérico, o la excresión urinaria de calcio, debe monitorizarse cuidadosamente si, a) más de 100g de calcipotriol se utilizan semanalmente, y b) el paciente presenta anomalías en el metabolismo del calcio o insuficiencia renal. Calcipotriol será usado en forma creciente en psoriasis y otras patologías cutáneas. Su lugar en la práctica dermatológica está asegurado y promete más en el futuro