Serum levels of vitamin D, magnesium, and calcium in patients with stable bronchial asthma

Background Vitamin D has multiple effects on the innate and adaptive immune system. Vitamin D has immunomodulation effects that are able to decrease the inflammatory reaction included in the bronchial asthma; thus, it plays an important effect in the asthma pathogenesis. Low serum magnesium level is associated with impaired lung function and bronchial hyperreactivity. Study design This is a prospective hospital-based study. Objective To evaluate serum levels of vitamin D, magnesium, and calcium in patients with stable bronchial asthma and their relation to asthma severity. Patients and methods A total of 65 adult patients with stable bronchial asthma and 30 healthy controls were included in the study. After clinical history taking and examination, pulmonary function tests were performed. Serum levels of 25-hydroxy vitamin D [25(OH)D], ionized calcium, and magnesium were measured in all participants. Results The mean serum levels of 25(OH)D, magnesium, and ionized calcium were significantly lower in patients with stable asthma than control participants (P<0.0001 for all). Levels of serum 25(OH)D, magnesium, and ionized calcium significantly decreased with the increase in asthma severity (P<0.0001 for all). Conclusion Levels of serum vitamin D, magnesium, and calcium were significantly decreased in patients with stable bronchial asthma in comparison with control participant. Increase in asthma severity is significantly associated with decrease of levels of serum vitamin D, calcium, and magnesium.