VITAMIN D IN THE TREATMENT OF INFECTIOUS ARTHRITIS

Abstract

Large doses of vit. D partially controlled the symptoms of infectious arthritis in 7 of 14 patients and in 68% of 25 courses of treatment, but produced very little effect on the objective findings. Vit. D is not a specific; exacerbations may occur while the patient is taking large doses. The beneficial effects are only transitory. There is some risk of renal damage, apparently temporary if the adm. of vit. D is promptly discontinued, but serious damage may occur. It is not necessary to produce toxic symptoms or renal damage to obtain clinical improvement. There is no good correlation between clinical improvement and toxic symptoms or renal damage as evidenced by retention of urea. However, 11 patients with elevated blood C had clinical improvement and of 4 with normal C, 2 improved and 2 did not. Gastro-intestinal upset was the most frequent sign of toxicity and usually gave adequate warning, but in one case urea increased without gastro-intestinal upset. Patients receiving vit. D should be watched carefully for toxic symptoms.