The importance of vitamin D

Vitamin D fulfills various functions in bone and mineral metabolism through its action on three main organs: the intestine, kidney, and bones. Calcitriol [1,25-(OH) 2 -D 3 ] is the metabolically active form of vitamin D and has a high affinity for its receptor (VDR), which is expressed in most cell types. This union allows it to perform its functions at the skeletal and extra-skeletal level. Prolonged deficiency of this vitamin is mainly associated with alterations in bone mineralization and a decrease in bone mineral density leading to the subsequent development of osteomalacia and osteoporosis. This article will review the metabolism of vitamin D, its actions at the musculoskeletal level and the consequences of the deficiency, as well as the necessary guidelines to establish the diagnosis and adequate treatment of supplementation.