Exploring the Relationship between Vitamin D and Autoimmunity Leading to Thyroid Dysfunction

Abstract

Objective: To determine the relationship between vitamin D and autoimmunity which leads to thyroid
dysfunction.
Material and Methods: The cross-sectional study was conducted from 01/11/2023 to 31/04/2024 in
Medical unit 4 of Services Hospital, Lahore. Data was collected from 120 patients. Patients were recruited
after written informed consent keeping in mind inclusion and exclusion criteria. Their clinical parameters
were recorded, thyroid examination was carried out and vitamin D levels were sent along with other routine
labs (FT3, FT4, TSH and Anti TPO antibodies).
Results: Mean age of participants was 49.28±8.9 years. The mean Body Mass Index (BMI) was 27.63±5.07
kg/m². The mean 25(OH)D concentration was 27.32±11.45 nmol/L, reflecting variability in vitamin D levels
among the participants. Analyzing vitamin D status, 37.5% of participants (45 individuals) were found to be
deficient, 34.2% (41 individuals) had insufficient levels, and 28.3% (34 individuals) had sufficient levels.
Additionally, 60.8% of participants (73 individuals) had co-morbid conditions, while 39.2% (47 individuals)
did not.
Conclusion: It is concluded that there is no significant association between vitamin D levels and the
autoimmune status of patients with thyroid dysfunction. While vitamin D levels do play a role in thyroid
health, however our data does not support a link between vitamin D status and the presence of autoimmune
thyroid disorders.
Keywords: Vitamin D, Autoimmunity, Thyroid Dysfunction, Autoimmune Thyroid Diseases