ABSTRACT
Introduction:
Vitamin D is considered a pre-hormone and plays a crucial role in calcium homeostasis and, consequently, in bone health. The best source of vitamin D is the skin in response to sunlight. Only small amounts of this vitamin are found in some foods (especially fatty fish), which makes availability of vitamin D in the diet limited. Brazilian population studies show that the prevalence of hypovitaminosis D in our country is high.
Objective:
To define the reference intervals for vitamin D [25(OH)D].
Discussion:
Consensus of specialists - literature review.
Conclusion:
The standardization of reference intervals is fundamental for the correct diagnosis and treatment of hypovitaminosis D.
Key words:
vitamin D; 25-hydroxyvitamin D; reference range