Inflammatory Bowel Disease Nutrient Deficiency Panel

The following is a list of what is included in the item above. Click the test(s) below to view what biomarkers are measured along with an explanation of what the biomarker is measuring.

Vitamin D, 25-Oh, D2

Vitamin D2 ((ergocalciferol,) is found in fortified foods and in most vitamin preparations and supplements. Vitamin D comes from two sources: endogenous, which is produced in the skin on exposure to sunlight, and exogenous, which is ingested in foods and supplements. The D2 form is found in fortified foods and in most vitamin preparations and supplements. Vitamin D2 is effective when it is converted by the liver and the kidney into the active form, 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D.

Vitamin D, 25-Oh, D3

Vitamin D3 (cholecalcifero) which comes from animals. Vitamin D comes from two sources: endogenous, which is produced in the skin on exposure to sunlight, and exogenous, which is ingested in foods and supplements. Vitamin D3 is the form produced in the body and is also used in some supplements. Vitamin D3 are is converted by the liver and the kidney into the active form, 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D.

Vitamin D, 25-Oh, Total

Vitamin D comes from two sources: endogenous, which is produced in the skin on exposure to sunlight, and exogenous, which is ingested in foods and supplements. The chemical structures of the types of vitamin D are slightly different, and they are named vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol, which comes from plants) and vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol, which comes from animals). The D2 form is found in fortified foods and in most vitamin preparations and supplements. Vitamin D3 is the form produced in the body and is also used in some supplements. Vitamin D2 and D3 are equally effective when they are converted by the liver and the kidney into the active form, 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D.

Vitamin D, 25-Oh, Total

Vitamin D comes from two sources: endogenous, which is produced in the skin on exposure to sunlight, and exogenous, which is ingested in foods and supplements. The chemical structures of the types of vitamin D are slightly different, and they are named vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol, which comes from plants) and vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol, which comes from animals). The D2 form is found in fortified foods and in most vitamin preparations and supplements. Vitamin D3 is the form produced in the body and is also used in some supplements. Vitamin D2 and D3 are equally effective when they are converted by the liver and the kidney into the active form, 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D.

Also known as: Retinol, Vitamin A, Vitamin A Retinol

Vitamin A

This test measures the level of retinol in the blood; retinol is the primary form of vitamin A in animals. Vitamin A is an essential nutrient required for healthy vision, skin growth and integrity, bone formation, immune function, and embryonic development. It is required to produce photoreceptors in the eyes and to maintain the lining of the surface of the eyes and other mucous membranes. Deficiencies in vitamin A can impair night vision, cause eye damage, and in severe cases lead to blindness. Acute or chronic excesses of vitamin A can be toxic, cause a range of symptoms, and sometimes lead to birth defects. The body cannot make vitamin A and must rely on dietary sources of vitamin A. Meat sources provide vitamin A (as retinol), while vegetable and fruit sources provide carotene (a substance that can be converted into vitamin A by the liver). Vitamin A is stored in the liver and fat tissues (it is fat-soluble), and healthy adults may have as much as a year's worth stored. The body maintains a relatively stable concentration in the blood through a feedback system that releases vitamin A from storage as needed and increases or decreases the efficiency of dietary vitamin A absorption.

Also known as: Cobalamin, Folic Acid, Vitamin B 12, Vitamin B 12 and Folic Acid, Vitamin B12 Cobalamin and Folate Panel Serum, Vitamin B12/Folic Acid

Folate, Serum

Folate is part of the B complex of vitamins and is measures the levels of folate in the liquid portion of the blood, the serum or plasma, to detect deficiencies. Folate is necessary for normal RBC formation, tissue and cellular repair, and DNA synthesis.. A deficiency inr folate can lead to macrocytic anemia. Megaloblastic anemia, a type of macrocytic anemia, is characterized by the production of fewer but larger RBCs called macrocytes, in addition to some cellular changes in the bone marrow.

Vitamin B12

Vitamin B12 is part of the B complex of vitamins and measurea the levels of vitamin B12 in the liquid portion of the blood, the serum or plasma, to detect deficiencies. Cobalamine, or vitamin B12, is found in animal products such as red meat, fish, poultry, milk, yogurt, and eggs and is not produced in the human body. In recent years, fortified cereals, breads, and other grain products have also become important dietary sources of B12. Vitamin B12 is necessary for normal RBC formation, tissue and cellular repair, and DNA synthesis. B12 is important for nerve health. A deficiency in B12 can lead to macrocytic anemia. Megaloblastic anemia, a type of macrocytic anemia, is characterized by the production of fewer but larger RBCs called macrocytes, in addition to some cellular changes in the bone marrow. B12 deficiency can lead to varying degrees of neuropathy, nerve damage that can cause tingling and numbness in the affected person's hands and feet.

Also known as: Alpha-Tocopherol, Vitamin E Tocopherol

Alpha-Tocopherol

Beta-Gamma-Tocopherol

Vitamin K

Vitamin K helps your body by making proteins for healthy bones and tissues. It also makes proteins for blood clotting. If you don't have enough vitamin K, you may bleed too much.
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The Inflammatory Bowel Disease Nutrient Deficiency Panel panel contains 5 tests with 10 biomarkers.

The Inflammatory Bowel Disease Nutrient Deficiency Panel is a comprehensive diagnostic tool designed to assess levels of essential vitamins in individuals with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). IBD, which includes Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, is characterized by chronic inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract, leading to malabsorption of nutrients. This panel evaluates key vitamins that are often deficient in IBD patients due to impaired absorption, dietary restrictions, and increased nutritional needs. Identifying deficiencies helps healthcare providers develop targeted nutritional interventions to support the health and well-being of patients with IBD.

When and Why the Inflammatory Bowel Disease Nutrient Deficiency Panel May Be Ordered

This panel may be ordered for patients diagnosed with IBD who exhibit symptoms suggestive of nutrient deficiencies, such as fatigue, anemia, bone pain, and poor wound healing. It is particularly useful for monitoring the nutritional status of patients during flare-ups, after surgical interventions, or when there are changes in their disease management plan. The panel can also be ordered as part of routine follow-ups to ensure ongoing nutritional adequacy and to prevent complications associated with long-term nutrient deficiencies.

What the Inflammatory Bowel Disease Nutrient Deficiency Panel Checks For

The Inflammatory Bowel Disease Nutrient Deficiency Panel includes tests to measure the levels of essential vitamins that are critical for various bodily functions and are commonly deficient in IBD patients:

  • Vitamin A: Vitamin A is essential for vision, immune function, and skin health. Deficiency can lead to night blindness, increased susceptibility to infections, and skin issues.
  • Vitamin B9 (Folate): Folate is vital for DNA synthesis, repair, and red blood cell production. Deficiency can cause megaloblastic anemia, fatigue, and an increased risk of neural tube defects during pregnancy.
  • Vitamin B12 (Cobalamin): Cobalamin is crucial for red blood cell formation and neurological function. Deficiency can result in megaloblastic anemia, neurological issues, and cognitive disturbances.
  • Vitamin D: Vitamin D is necessary for calcium absorption and bone health. Deficiency can lead to osteomalacia in adults and rickets in children, as well as an increased risk of fractures.
  • Vitamin E: Vitamin E acts as an antioxidant, protecting cells from oxidative stress. Deficiency can cause neurological problems, muscle weakness, and impaired immune function.
  • Vitamin K: Vitamin K is essential for blood clotting and bone metabolism. Deficiency can lead to bleeding disorders and reduced bone density.

How a Healthcare Professional Would Use the Results of the Inflammatory Bowel Disease Nutrient Deficiency Panel

Healthcare professionals use the results of the Inflammatory Bowel Disease Nutrient Deficiency Panel to:

  • Diagnose and Treat Vitamin A Deficiency: If a deficiency is detected, the healthcare provider may recommend vitamin A supplements and advise on dietary changes to increase the intake of vitamin A-rich foods such as carrots, sweet potatoes, and leafy greens.
  • Manage Folate Deficiency: Identifying low folate levels can lead to the prescription of folate supplements and dietary adjustments to include folate-rich foods like leafy greens, legumes, and fortified grains. This is particularly important for preventing anemia and supporting overall health.
  • Address Vitamin B12 Deficiency: If a deficiency in vitamin B12 is found, the provider may recommend vitamin B12 injections or high-dose oral supplements, especially if the patient has absorption issues. Dietary sources of B12, such as meat, fish, and dairy, may also be emphasized.
  • Monitor and Supplement Vitamin D: Low levels of vitamin D can be managed with supplements and increased exposure to sunlight. The provider may also suggest dietary sources of vitamin D, such as fortified dairy products, fish, and eggs.
  • Treat Vitamin E Deficiency: Supplementation with vitamin E and dietary changes to include vitamin E-rich foods like nuts, seeds, and vegetable oils can help address deficiencies. This is essential for preventing neurological and immune function issues.
  • Correct Vitamin K Deficiency: If vitamin K levels are low, the healthcare provider may recommend supplements and encourage the intake of vitamin K-rich foods, such as leafy greens and fermented foods, to support blood clotting and bone health.

The Inflammatory Bowel Disease Nutrient Deficiency Panel is an essential tool for managing the nutritional health of individuals with IBD. By assessing levels of key vitamins such as Vitamin A, Vitamin B9, Vitamin B12, Vitamin D, Vitamin E, and Vitamin K, this panel helps healthcare providers identify deficiencies and develop effective treatment plans. Ensuring adequate nutrient intake through supplements and dietary modifications is crucial for maintaining overall health and preventing complications associated with nutrient deficiencies. Regular monitoring and personalized nutrition plans based on the panel results support the long-term well-being of patients with inflammatory bowel disease.

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