TOXICITY OF LARGE DOSES OF VITAMIN D (ERTRON)

Abstract

Large doses of vit. D taken over a period of time may be toxic and can cause metastatic calcification, renal failure, and death. The case reported is a 59 year old white [male] who received 200,000 units of vit. D (Ertron) daily for a period of 17 mos., with the development of hard, subcut. nodules of both arms after 10 mos. of medication. Roentgenograms revealed extensive subcut. calcification throughout the body. Despite the absence of renal calcification and hypercalcemia, renal insufficiency was present. Therapy included a low-Ca diet and cessation of vit. D medication. This resulted in a reduction of subcut. periarticular calcification as seen on roentgenograms, and symptomatic improvement. Large doses of vit. D are of doubtful value in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. Concentrated vit. D medication may be toxic when used over prolonged periods of time.