Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels in patients with slipped upper femoral epiphysis - A physiological pre-disposition for an anatomical disorder?

ABSTRACT

Background: Slipped upper femoral epiphysis (SUFE) is a common adolescent hip disorder with a multifactorial etiology affecting the growth plate. 25-hydroxy (OH) Vitamin D has a main role in maintaining adequate bone mineralization. There are only few studies in India that relates the association between SUFE and serum 25(OH)vitamin D deficiency. Aim and Objective: The objective of the study was to estimate the serum levels of 25(OH)vitamin D in diagnosed cases of SUFE and to compare the levels with healthy controls. Materials and methods: Our study was a case–control study conducted in a tertiary care center. The Institutional Ethics Committee approved the study. Serum 25(OH)vitamin D levels in a total of 40 subjects including 20 confirmed cases of SUFE and 20 healthy controls were estimated and statistical analysis was carried out. Results: Serum 25(OH) vitamin D levels were found to be decreased in SUFE cases when compared to control group and the difference is statistically significant with P < 0.001 by independent t-test. Conclusion: Our study establishes the need for estimation of serum 25(OH) vitamin D levels in diagnosed cases of SUFE and adequate correction of the deficiency in its management.