We conducted a retrospective review to uncover how vitamin D treatment impacts back pain in individuals diagnosed with adult-onset hypophosphatemic osteomalacia. In our exploration, we found that eight patients, primarily experiencing widespread musculoskeletal pain, were assessed over a span from January 2011 to December 2019.
Each patient presented with low phosphorus levels, elevated alkaline phosphatase, and indicative imaging results. Notably, back pain was reported as the most common complaint, along with muscle weakness in over half of the cases. Our findings highlighted the effectiveness of vitamin D in tandem with phosphorus supplementation, as all patients reported significant improvements in pain, muscle strength, and gait after receiving treatment.
Importantly, we noted that the specific diagnosis of each patient varied. In six cases, treatment was prompted by adefovir-induced Fanconi syndrome, while the remaining two patients had tumor-induced osteomalacia and light-chain nephropathy. This variation indicates the diverse etiologies of hypophosphatemic osteomalacia, further emphasizing the importance of targeted treatment based on individual needs.
In conclusion, our study suggests that vitamin D, especially when combined with phosphorus, plays a crucial role in alleviating back pain associated with this condition. By enhancing the understanding of the relationship between vitamin D treatment and back pain, we aim to shed light on effective management strategies for those suffering from similar symptoms.