Name of the Procedure:

Vitamin D; 1, 25 Dihydroxy (also known as Calcitriol Test)

Summary

The Vitamin D; 1, 25 Dihydroxy test measures the level of the active form of vitamin D in your blood. This test helps to assess and manage problems related to calcium, phosphorus, and bone metabolism.

Purpose

The primary purpose of this test is to evaluate the body's level of active vitamin D, which is crucial for maintaining strong and healthy bones and regulating calcium levels in the blood. It helps in diagnosing conditions related to abnormal vitamin D, calcium, or phosphate levels.

Indications

• Symptoms of Vitamin D deficiency (e.g., bone pain, muscle weakness)
• Unexplained fatigue or depression
• Patients with chronic kidney disease
• Patients with calcium imbalances or abnormalities
• Monitoring patients undergoing treatment for parathyroid, bone, or kidney conditions

Preparation

• Fasting is not required.
• Inform your healthcare provider of any medications or supplements you are taking as they may affect test results.

Procedure Description

1. Blood Sample Collection:

   • A healthcare professional will clean the puncture site (usually the arm).
   • A needle will be inserted to draw a blood sample.
   • The blood sample will be collected into a vial or tube.

2. Laboratory Analysis:

   • The blood sample is sent to a laboratory where the serum is analyzed for levels of 1, 25 Dihydroxyvitamin D.

Duration

The blood draw typically only takes a few minutes. Laboratory analysis may take several days.

Setting

The blood sample is usually collected in a doctor's office, outpatient clinic, or laboratory.

Personnel

The procedure is performed by a phlebotomist or nurse who collects the blood sample. The blood analysis is conducted by a laboratory technician or medical technologist.

Risks and Complications

• Minimal risk of infection at the puncture site
• Possible bruising or minor bleeding
• Rarely, dizziness or fainting during blood draw

Benefits

• Accurate assessment of vitamin D activity in the body
• Helps in diagnosing and managing conditions related to bone health, renal function, and calcium/phosphorus metabolism

Recovery

• No recovery time is needed for the blood draw itself.
• Patients can usually resume normal activities immediately.

Alternatives

• Measurement of 25-Hydroxyvitamin D levels (a less specific measure of vitamin D status)
• Other blood tests to assess calcium and phosphorus levels
• Imaging tests such as bone density scans

Patient Experience

• Mild discomfort or pain during needle insertion
• Minor bleeding or bruising at the puncture site
• Generally well-tolerated with minimal downtime