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Neurology and Therapy
Published in: Neurology and Therapy 1/2018

Open Access 01-06-2018 | Review

Vitamin D and Multiple Sclerosis: A Comprehensive Review

Authors: Martina B. Sintzel, Mark Rametta, Anthony T. Reder

Published in: Neurology and Therapy | Issue 1/2018

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Abstract

Numerous observational studies have suggested that there is a correlation between the level of serum vitamin D and MS risk and disease activity. To explore this hypothesis, a literature search of large, prospective, observation studies, epidemiological studies, and studies using new approaches such as Mendelian randomization was conducted. Available data and ongoing research included in this review suggest that the level of serum vitamin D affects the risk of developing MS and also modifies disease activity in MS patients. Newer Mendelian randomization analyses suggest there is a causal relationship between low vitamin D level and the risk of MS. Post-hoc evaluations from two phase 3 studies, BENEFIT and BEYOND, support the findings of observational trials. Study limitations identified in this review recognize the need for larger controlled clinical trials to establish vitamin D supplementation as the standard of care for MS patients. Though there is increasing evidence indicating that lower vitamin D levels are associated with increased risk of MS and with greater clinical and brain MRI activity in established MS, the impact of vitamin D supplementation on MS activity remains inadequately investigated.
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Metadata
Title
Vitamin D and Multiple Sclerosis: A Comprehensive Review
Authors
Martina B. Sintzel
Mark Rametta
Anthony T. Reder
Publication date
01-06-2018
Publisher
Springer Healthcare
Published in
Neurology and Therapy / Issue 1/2018
Print ISSN: 2193-8253
Electronic ISSN: 2193-6536
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s40120-017-0086-4

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