Correlation between vitamin D level and idiopathic scoliosis development in an adolescent population: early detection

Objective Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) is the most common spinal deformity and has unclear aetiology. Vitamin D deficiency may contribute to AIS through its impact on bone metabolism. This study examined the correlation between vitamin D levels and idiopathic scoliosis development in an adolescent patient population. Methods The study involved 130 patients (aged 7 to 18 years) diagnosed with AIS at a Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation Centre in Qena, Egypt, between May 2021 and October 2022. Patients’ clinical and demographic data were extracted from medical records, including age, gender, height, weight, serum vitamin D level, and Cobb angle. Scoliosis was identified when the Cobb angle was ≥ 10°. Results Patients’ mean age was 13.1 ± 2.75 years, vitamin D level was 10.3 ng/ml ± 4.76, and weight was 47.4 kg ± 9.63. In the patient group, the mean Cobb angle was 16.8 ± 5.79°, with a 95 % confidence interval (CI) of 15.8–17.8. Vitamin D levels correlated positively with age (<i>r</i> = 0.45, <i>p</i> < 0.001) and weight (<i>r</i> = 0.51, <i>p</i> < 0.001). However, only a weak positive correlation was found between vitamin D and the Cobb angle (<i>r</i> = 0.11, <i>p</i> = 0.18). Conclusions Vitamin D deficiency may contribute to AIS pathogenesis by affecting calcium and phosphorus metabolism in bone. As a result, we recommend testing vitamin D levels in those with AIS. Although there was only a positive weak correlation (not significant) between vitamin D levels and Cobb angle, vitamin D deficiency/insufficiency should be examined in AIS patients.