Low serum level of 1,25(OH)2D is associated with chronic periodontitis

Background and ObjectivesVitamin D has been studied primarily for its involvement in calcium and phosphate absorption and bone metabolism. The active form of vitamin D1,25(OH)(2)Dhas also been investigated for its immune modulatory properties. We explored associations between serum levels of 25(OH)D and 1,25(OH)(2)D and periodontal health. Subjects and MethodsThis case-control study included 55 subjects with chronic periodontitis (cases) and 30 periodontally healthy subjects (controls). Their serum levels of 25(OH)D, 1,25(OH)(2)D, ultrasensitive C-reactive protein and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol were determined. Associations between vitamin D and periodontal health status were studied using logistic regression analysis. ResultsA statistically significant association was found between serum 1,25(OH)(2)D level and periodontal health status; in that subjects with a low 1,25(OH)(2)D were more likely to belong to the periodontitis group (OR=0.97, 95% CI=0.95-1.00). There was practically no association between 25(OH)D level and periodontal health status. ConclusionIn this case-control study low serum 1,25(OH)(2)D level appeared to be associated with periodontitis, which was in line with the previously reported associations between serum 1,25(OH)(2)D levels and other inflammatory diseases. Whether this association is causal in nature, remains to be confirmed in future studies.