Alternative names 
Vitamin D toxicity

Definition
Hypervitaminosis D symptoms appear several months after excessive doses of vitamin D are administered.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors
An excess of vitamin D causes abnormally high blood concentrations of calcium which can eventually cause severe damage to the bones, soft tissues, and kidneys. It is almost always associated with forms of vitamin D that require a doctor’s prescription.

Symptoms

 
• Dehydration  
• Vomiting  
• Decreased appetite (anorexia)  
• Irritability  
• Constipation  
• Fatigue

Signs and tests

 
• Polydipsia (excessive thirst)  
• Polyuria (passing large amounts of urine)  
• Hypertension (high blood pressure)  
• Hypercalcemia (excess calcium in the blood)  
• Hypercalciuria (excess calcium in the urine)

Tests to confirm the diagnosis:

 
• Calcium - serum  
• Phosphorus - serum  
• 25 hydroxyVitamin D levels  
• 1,25 dihydroxyVitamin D levels  
• X-ray of the bone (focusing on the long bones)

Treatment
Stop vitamin D intake. Consult your physician. In severe cases, other therapy may be necessary.

Expectations (prognosis)
Recovery is expected.

Complications

 
• Kidney damage  
• Kidney stones

Calling your health care provider
Call your health care provider if you or your child shows symptoms of hypervitaminosis D and you have been taking vitamin D in excess of the recommended daily allowance or have been taking a prescription form of vitamin D.

Prevention
To prevent this condition, pay careful attention to appropriate vitamin D intake.

Medical Encyclopedia

All ArmMed Media material is provided for information only and is neither advice nor a substitute for proper medical care. Consult a qualified healthcare professional who understands your particular history for individual concerns.