Serum levels of vitamin D and tumour necrosis factor-alpha in adults with metabolic syndrome

Introduction. Reports continue to show that a significant association exists between serum vitamin D level and metabolic syndrome (MS)-associated inflammation. However, information on the serum levels of vitamin D and alterations in inflammation in different vitamin D status is presently lacking. Aim. To determine the serum levels of vitamin D and TNF-α, and assess their possible relationship with gender in individuals with MS. Material and methods. Sixty adults with MS and 40 controls were enrolled into this case-control study. Serum vitamin D and TNF-α levels were measured and participants stratified into different vitamin D status. Results. None of the participants had vitamin D deficiency and the mean vitamin D level was similar in MS compared with the controls. However, TNF-α level was significantly higher in MS compared with the controls. Serum vitamin D level had significant inverse correlation with serum TNF-α level in MS. Also vitamin D level was significantly lower while TNF-α level was significantly higher in female-MS compared with the male-MS. Conclusion. Adults with MS have elevated TNF-α level which appears to be associated with the serum level of vitamin D. Also, females with MS have low vitamin D level and this may exacerbate the MS-associated inflammation in them.