Correlation between vitamin D levels and hard-to-heal wounds: a systematic review.

Abstract

OBJECTIVE:

Hard-to-heal wounds are a major biological, psychological, social and financial burden on both individual patients and the broader health system. They are associated with a variety of comorbidities and have a complex aetiology, but are typically associated with nutritional deficiencies, such as low vitamin D levels. This systematic literature review evaluates the current research regarding the connection between inadequate vitamin D status and wound healing.

METHOD:

PubMed and EBSCO databases were searched following PRISMA guidelines for primary research studies relating to pressure ulcers, diabetic ulcers or venous ulcers and vitamin D status.

RESULTS:

A total of 10 studies, involving 2359 participants, met the inclusion criteria. There was a strong correlation between low levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D and the presence of all three types of hard-to-heal wounds.

CONCLUSION:

Research suggests a correlation between low vitamin D levels and hard-to-heal wounds. However, it is not clear if the relationship is causal or only correlational. There is also emerging evidence on the use of vitamin D supplementation for the treatment of hard-to-heal wounds. More research is needed to understand the correlation between vitamin D and hard-to-heal wounds.

• Authors: Karen Smith, Susan Hewlings
• Journal: Journal of wound care (J Wound Care) Vol. 29 Issue Sup7 Pg. S24-S30 (Jul 01 2020) ISSN: 0969-0700 [Print] England
• PMID: 32654618 (Publication Type: Journal Article, Systematic Review)

Topics

• Humans
• Vitamin D Deficiency (complications)
• Wound Healing