The Role of Vitamin D Deficiency in the Pathogenesis of Osteoporosis and in the Modulation of the Immune System in HIV-Infected Patients

Vitamin D deficiency is widespread among HIV-infected adults and children. Vitamin D deficiency may contribute to the risk of developing the long-term complications of HIV infection, such as osteoporosis. Vitamin D is also known to play an important role in the immune system and may affect HIV disease progression and/or CD4 cell counts. This article will review the current data on the role of vitamin D deficiency in the pathogenesis of osteoporosis and in the modulation of the immune system in HIV-infected patients.