Role of vitamin D in autoimmune rheumatological diseases

Abstract

Introduction: Vitamin D is a hormone synthesized in the skin, by the presence of the "precursor molecule 7-dehicrocholesterol" whose action depends directly on the stimulus of ultraviolet rays for the production of cholecalciferol. It has several functions including a fundamental role in mediating the response of the immune system, plays modulatory actions, counteracts inflammatory, oxidative and fibrotic activity, and consequently regulates autoimmune tissue lesions. As it possesses an immunomodulatory property, is related to the appearance and progression of autoimmune disorders. Objective: To describe the role of vitamin D in autoimmune rheumatologic diseases. Methods: A narrative review was performed, collecting information from January 2019 to January 2023 in scientific databases such as: Pubmed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar, using keywords. Results: Vitamin D in autoimmune rheumatic diseases influences the control and decrease of inflammatory activity, slows its speed of progression and improves clinical manifestations, although there is no total consensus on the mode of use, however, its supplementation has a great benefit. Conclusions: The role of Vitamin D in autoimmune rheumatic diseases varies according to the underlying pathology, in combination with bisphosphonates it can improve bone mineral density in spondyloarthropathies, prevent osteoporosis, improve the clinical picture of SLE and Systemic Sclerosis, but it can increase antibody levels in Connective Tissue Diseases.