Vitamin D deficiency in myotonic dystrophy type 1

Myotonic dystrophy type 1 (DM1) is a multisystemic disorder affecting, among others, the endocrine system, with derangement of steroid hormones functions. Vitamin D is a steroid recognized for its role in calcium homeostasis. In addition, vitamin D influences muscle metabolism by genomic and non-genomic actions, including stimulation of the insulin-like-growth-factor 1 (IGF1), a major regulator of muscle trophism. To verify the presence of vitamin D deficit in DM1 and its possible consequences, serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D), calcium, parathormone (PTH), and IGF1 levels were measured in 32 DM1 patients and in 32 age-matched controls. Bone mineral density (BMD) and proximal muscle strength were also measured by DXA and a handheld dynamometer, respectively. In DM1 patients, 25(OH)D levels were reduced compared to controls, and a significant decrease of IGF1 was also found. 25(OH)D levels inversely correlated with CTG expansion size, while IGF1 levels and muscle strength directly correlated with levels of 25(OH)D lower than 20 and 10 ng/ml, respectively. A significantly higher percentage of DM1 patients presented hyperparathyroidism as compared to controls. Calcium levels and BMD were comparable between the two groups. Oral administration of cholecalciferol in 11 DM1 patients with severe vitamin D deficiency induced a normal increase of circulating 25(OH)D, ruling out defects in intestinal absorption or hepatic hydroxylation. DM1 patients show a reduction of circulating 25(OH)D, which correlates with genotype and may influence IGF1 levels and proximal muscle strength. Oral supplementation with vitamin D should be considered in DM1 and might mitigate muscle weakness.