Vitamin D Deficiency And Skin Disorders

Vitamin D deficiencies result from poor diet, low exposure to sunlight, malabsorption, your body's increased need for the vitamin or a food allergy. Vitamin D deficiency, proven to cause bone weakness and deformities, could also increase the risk of high blood pressure, cancer and autoimmune diseases. A recent hypothesis links vitamin D deficiency to skin disorders, although a relationship between the two remains unsubstantiated. However, doctors prescribe various forms of vitamin D to treat certain skin conditions.

Psoriasis

Psoriasis, a common skin disorder, produces thickened skin, itching, redness and white scales. The root cause of this skin disorder is a mystery. According to Mayo Clinic, psoriasis outbreaks may occur due to a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Once you have psoriasis, it can recur throughout life.

A 2002 study from the "Archives of Dermatology" supports the use of ultraviolet B phototherapy to successfully treat psoriasis. Topical vitamin D also effectively clears psoriasis plaques, according to "American Family Physician." In addition, vitamin D cream may minimize scarring associated with psoriasis. In some cases, UVB light used in conjunction with a topical treatment provides superior results when compared to the success rates of the individual therapies.

Eczema

Atopic dermatitis, a chronic skin disorder, typically affects the arms and creases of the skin. During flare-ups, it creates areas of inflamed, itchy skin and results in thick patches of dry skin. Commonly called eczema, this condition may be hereditary and often occurs in people prone to allergies, immune system disorders and asthma. Stress and anxiety can trigger eczema, but scientists do not know the origin of the disorder.

Phototherapy, exposure to natural or artificial ultraviolet A or UVB light, can treat certain forms of eczema. However, long-term phototherapy can lead to premature aging and may increase your risk of developing skin cancer.

Research conducted at the University of California, San Diego School of Medicine indicates oral vitamin D may help prevent infections related to atopic dermatitis. Vitamin D supplements produce cathelicidin, an antibacterial peptide, to protect the skin against microorganisms.

Scleroderma

Scleroderma encompasses a family of skin disorders caused by immune system malfunction. A healthy immune system protects the body from infection and disease. If you suffer from scleroderma, your immune defenses begin to attack healthy skin. This causes scar tissue to form, resulting in taut, thick skin, which worsens over time. In extreme cases, scleroderma penetrates the skin, affecting blood vessels and internal organs. Researchers have not determined the exact cause of scleroderma, however integrative therapies involve the use of vitamin D.

The University of Maryland Medical Center suggests phototherapy as one of the best treatments for localized scleroderma. Use of UVA-1 radiation generates safer, long ultraviolet waves that may restore damaged skin cell DNA. Topical and oral formulations of vitamin D3, or calcipotriene, may inhibit the manufacture of skin cells and prevent inflammation. An improved outcome may result with a combination of vitamin D3 and UVA-1 phototherapy.

Considerations

Before undergoing vitamin D treatment for a skin disorder, schedule a thorough dermatological examination. Describe your symptoms, whether they seem relevant or not. Disclose all prescribed medications, supplements and over-the-counter drugs you currently take. Discuss your medical history and diet. This will ensure an accurate diagnosis and best course of treatment.