Vitamin D Advanced (D2, D3 & D Total)

Vitamin D is a fat-soluble essential nutrient. It exists in two main forms, vitamin D3 and D2. Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) is derived mainly from animal sources. You can get it from fish, egg yolk, etc., and by spending time in sunlight, which provides ultraviolet B (UVB) rays. Vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol) comes from plant sources like mushrooms and some plant-based supplements. Both vitamin D2 and D3 are changed into 25-hydroxy D2 or 25-hydroxy D3 in the liver. Measuring the levels of 25-hydroxy vitamin D in the blood is the best way to check the vitamin D status.

As per a study by NCBI (National Center for Biotechnology Information), vitamin D deficiency is highly prevalent across all age groups in India. Low vitamin D levels can lead to an increased risk of fractures, muscle weakness and lethargy, dysfunction of the immune system, and an increased risk of chronic diseases like diabetes. The Vitamin D Advanced (D2, D3 & D Total) test can help find out if there is a vitamin D deficiency. It can also show if there is too much vitamin D in the body, usually from taking too many supplements.

The Vitamin D Advanced (D2, D3 & D Total) test offers a more detailed assessment of vitamin D status in the body. It evaluates Total 25-OH D as well as 25-OH metabolites of vitamin D2 and vitamin D3 using the highly specialized LC-MS/MS technique. On the other hand, a routine Vitamin D (25-OH) test measures only the Total 25-OH D vitamin  (i.e., D2+D3) and does not differentiate between the two forms. The LC-MS/MS method is considered the gold standard for vitamin D evaluation. It is a highly specialized and sensitive method that can help differentiate between various forms of vitamin D, 25 (OH) D, and also substrates, D2 and D3. Additionally, LC-MS/MS can detect very small amounts of vitamin D and its byproducts. 

The doctor may suggest Vitamin D Advanced (D2, D3 & D Total) test if there are symptoms suggestive of vitamin D deficiency or excess such as bone deformities, immune system dysfunction, muscle cramps and weakness, dental abnormalities, bone pain, fatigue, loss of appetite, increased thirst, nausea, frequent urination, etc.

No special preparation is required for this test. Consume a regular diet before taking the test. However, it is generally recommended to stop taking vitamin D supplements before this test, as they may affect the accuracy of the test results. Also, let the doctor know about all the other medications being taken, as some can affect the test results.

Lab test result ranges are approximate and may differ slightly between labs depending on the methodology and laboratory guidelines. Talk to the doctor about the specific test results. The test results will help them determine the medical condition, make recommendations for lifestyle modifications such as diet and exercise, prescribe medication if required to manage the condition and formulate an overall treatment plan.