My calcium is 10.5 mg/dl, my PTH is 53 pg/ml, my Vit D 25-hydroxy is 21 ng/ml. My doctor wants to start me on Vitamin D daily. Everything I’ve read says not to treat the low Vitamin D, if this could be primary hyperparathyroidism. Not sure what to do! How is taking Vit D going to lower my calcium level? I am 47 years old.
Let’s summarize your results:
Calcium at 10.5 mg/dl is elevated for your age. PTH at 53 pg/ml is not suppressed, which is inappropriate for the elevated calcium level. Vit D 25-hydroxy at 21 ng/ml is on the lower side.
These numbers strongly suggest primary hyperparathyroidism (pHPT). In the context of pHPT, taking Vitamin D supplements is not the recommended course of action. Why? Because Vitamin D enhances calcium absorption from the intestines, and in someone with already elevated calcium due to pHPT, this could drive the calcium levels even higher.
Now, addressing your main concern: Vitamin D supplementation does not lower calcium levels. In your situation, it could in fact increase them. Your doctor may be focusing on the low Vitamin D rather than the complete picture.
The only cure for pHPT is surgical removal of the overactive parathyroid gland(s), not Vitamin D supplementation.
