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.
The Vitamin D & K Panel panel contains 2 tests with 5 biomarkers.
Brief Description: The Vitamin D & K Panel is an important diagnostic tool used to assess the levels of vitamins D and K in the body, both of which play crucial roles in bone health, cardiovascular health, and the immune system. This panel includes the QuestAssureD 25-Hydroxyvitamin D Total with D2 and D3 test, which measures the levels of vitamin D2 and D3 to determine the overall vitamin D status, and a Vitamin K test to assess the amount of this essential nutrient involved in blood clotting and bone metabolism.
Collection Method: Blood Draw
Specimen Type: Plasma and Serum
Test Preparation: Overnight fasting is preferred
The Vitamin D & K Panel may be ordered for individuals experiencing symptoms of vitamin D or K deficiency, such as bone pain, muscle weakness, cardiovascular issues, or bleeding disorders. It is also recommended for people at risk of deficiency due to factors like limited sun exposure, dietary restrictions, certain medical conditions, or medication use. Assessing the levels of these vitamins can help in the diagnosis of related health conditions, guide supplementation needs, and monitor the effectiveness of treatment strategies.
QuestAssureD 25-Hydroxyvitamin D Total with D2 and D3
This test measures the levels of vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol) and vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) to assess the overall vitamin D status. Vitamin D is essential for calcium absorption, bone health, immune function, and inflammation reduction. D2 and D3 are the two main forms of vitamin D, with D3 being the form naturally produced by the body when the skin is exposed to sunlight.
The Vitamin K test measures the level of this vitamin in the blood. Vitamin K is crucial for blood clotting and bone metabolism. It helps in the production of proteins required for blood clotting and the regulation of bone mineralization. There are two main forms of vitamin K: K1 (phylloquinone), found in leafy greens, and K2 (menaquinone), found in meats, cheeses, and produced by gut bacteria.
Vitamin D Deficiency
Vitamin D deficiency can lead to bone diseases such as rickets in children and osteomalacia or osteoporosis in adults. The QuestAssureD 25-Hydroxyvitamin D Total with D2 and D3 test can detect low levels of vitamin D, which are indicative of these conditions.
Vitamin K Deficiency
Vitamin K deficiency can result in bleeding disorders due to impaired blood clotting and contribute to bone weakness or cardiovascular disease. The Vitamin K test can identify deficiencies that may need to be addressed to prevent these health issues.
Vitamin D Deficiency
For vitamin D deficiency, healthcare professionals may recommend dietary changes, supplementation, or increased sun exposure. Monitoring vitamin D levels helps adjust treatment plans to ensure adequacy and prevent toxicity.
Vitamin K Deficiency
In cases of vitamin K deficiency, dietary adjustments or supplementation may be advised to ensure adequate intake. Monitoring vitamin K levels is important for patients on anticoagulant therapy to balance the risk of bleeding with the need for clot prevention.
The Vitamin D & K Panel is a valuable tool in identifying deficiencies of vitamins D and K, which are essential for maintaining bone health, cardiovascular function, and effective blood clotting. By providing precise measurements of these vitamins, the panel assists healthcare professionals in diagnosing associated conditions, guiding supplementation and dietary strategies, and monitoring treatment efficacy. Addressing deficiencies in these critical nutrients can significantly improve patient outcomes and prevent long-term health complications.