Correlation Between Vitamin D Deficiency (25(OH)D3) and the Severity of Purulent Oropharyngeal Infections

<b>Background:</b> Vitamin D plays a crucial role in immune system function, and its deficiency has been associated with an increased risk of infections. This study investigates the relationship between vitamin D deficiency and the severity of purulent oropharyngeal infections, considering the need for surgical interventions and the duration of hospitalization. <b>Materials and Methods:</b> This retrospective study included patients diagnosed with peritonsillar phlegmons, laterocervical abscesses, and peritonsillar abscesses. Patients were categorized based on their vitamin D levels: deficiency (<30 ng/mL) and optimal levels (≥30 ng/mL). The clinical parameters, length of hospitalization, and type of treatment were analyzed. Statistical analyses included Student's <i>t</i>-test, the chi-square test, and ANOVA to assess differences between groups. <b>Results:</b> Patients with vitamin D (25(OH)D3) deficiency had a significantly longer hospital stay (8.50 days vs. 3.24 days, <i>p</i> = 0.001) and required more frequent surgical interventions (55.6% vs. 27.8%, <i>p</i> = 0.002) compared to those with optimal vitamin D levels. A trend toward more complex treatment regimens was also observed, although this relationship was not statistically significant (<i>p</i> > 0.05). <b>Conclusions:</b> These findings suggest that vitamin D (25(OH)D3) deficiency may contribute to a more severe course of oropharyngeal infections, increasing the need for invasive treatments and prolonging hospitalization. This highlights the importance of monitoring vitamin D (25(OH)D3) levels and the potential benefits of supplementation in preventing and managing severe upper respiratory tract infections.