Objective - This study aimed to assess the correlation between vitamin D deficiency and electrophysiological findings and pain level in patients with symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). Patients and method - A total of 131 patients with symptoms of CTS, 70 with vitamin D deficiency and 61 without vitamin D deficiency, were included in the study. Using demographic data and findings from electrophysiological examinations, the patients were divided into two groups based on their vitamin D level (Group 1: <20 ng/ml; Group 2: ≥20 ng/ml). The Boston Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Questionnaire was used to assess their CTS- related pain level. Results - Although the rate of CTS in the patients with a low vitamin D level was found to be high, no statistically significant correlation was observed between low vitamin D level and the frequency and severity of CTS. Additionally, the pain and functional loss ratio induced by CTS was found to be higher in the group with a lower vitamin D level than in the group with normal levels. Conclusion - Low vitamin D levels may increase the severity of CTS symptoms. Treatment of vitamin D deficiency in patients with CTS can play a role in reducing pain and disability.

[INTRODUCTION - Data on bone mineral density (BMD) in diabetes mellitus are contradictory in the literature. Early studies described a decreased bone mineral density in type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM), but recent studies report no osteopenia in T1DM.The BMD may depend on the quality of treatment for diabetes mellitus and on the presence of chronic complications. In type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) the BMD is not decreased, occasionally it can even be increased. PATIENTS AND METHODS - Bone mineral density was measured in 122 regularly controlled diabetic patients (T1DM: n=73, mean age: 43.6±11.1 years,T2DM: n=49, mean age: 61.8±9.8 years) by dual energy X-ray absorptiometry at the lumbar spine and at the femur. Results were compared to those of 40 metabolically healthy control persons with a mean age of 47.5±11.9 years.The patients’ carbohydrate metabolism was assessed by the average HbA1c level of the last three years.These values were 7.9±1.4 % in T1DM, and 7.5±1.7 % in T2DM. BMDs were classified based on the T-score and Z-score using the WHO criteria. RESULTS - There was no significant difference in T1DM or in T2DM compared to the reference group in the prevalence of either osteoporosis or of osteoporosis and osteopenia combined. CONCLUSION - BMD was not found to be decreased in patients with well-controlled metabolism compared to healthy controls.]

[Vitamin D deficiency is a worldwide health problem. On the basis of the recommendations of the latest vitamin D consensus conference, we would like to draw attention to the significance of prevention as well as the recognition and treatment of vitamin D deficiency. We mention that some antiporotics designated “prefix” or “combi” are available that may ensure adequate calcium and vitamin D intake, thus improving patient’s adherence.]

[Osteoporosis poses a major public health problem worldwide due to the extreme number of patients and to the deterioration of quality of life, disability, excess mortality and costs associated with consequent fractures. Representative studies of the author’s group have previously shown that the average bone mineral density values of the Hungarian population are among the lowest in Europe while the prevalence of vertebral fractures is among the highest in international comparison. This revelation has led to the development of a National Osteoporosis Programme, the key element of which being the setting up of a network of osteoporosis centres that are based on the collaboration of various medical specialists, the availability of advanced diagnostic tools and outstanding therapeutic opportunities. On describing the 10-year activity of the centres, the main diagnostic, prevention and management approaches of osteoporosis are discussed. According to the WHO classification the diagnosis of osteoporosis is based on a low bone mineral density finding supported by the laboratory and radiological exclusion of other metabolic bone diseases and secondary forms of osteoporosis. According to the up-to-date treatment guidelines of osteoporosis, when considering medical treatment, preference should be given to patients with high fracture risk in giving drugs with extensive antifracture efficacy that has been confirmed by studies of evidencebased medicine. Among these drugs the most important are the antiresorptive bisphosphonates that have widely been used in Hungary and the bone forming teriparatide that is expected to gain wider use in the near future with the introduction of public health insurance financing. The efficacy of these specific antiosteoporotics is increased by supplementation with calcium and vitamin D. The internationally acknowledged Hungarian osteoporosis management system offers to Hungarian patients outstanding standards for the prevention and management of osteoporosis.]

[Studies in the last couple of years found more and more convincing evidence about the fact that impaired glucose metabolism leads to structural changes in the skeletal system leading toward osteoporosis. While patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus have decreased bone density, measurement showed increased bone mineral density in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Despite these differences, risk of vertebral and nonvertebral fractures is increased in both groups of diabetic patients. Decreased pancreatic beta cell function is accompanied by several hormonal disturbances leading to decreased bone formation even in the early stage of diabetes. Peak bone mass of diabetic children is lower than found in nondiabetic children. Late complications of diabetes, vascular and neuronal impairments, impaired renal function, and secondary hormonal disturbances are added to this process. IGF-1 may have a crucial role in the pathogenesis of osteoporosis in diabetes. The structure of the molecule is similar to insulin. IGF-1 has effect on normal bone formation, inhibits the apoptosis and interferes with several other metabolic pathways. IGF-1 mediates the effect of growth hormone to the muscular and skeletal system. IGF-1 level decreases with age, and lower level of IGF-1 is found in diabetic patients. Long term complications of diabetes can also occur, which may enhance the process of bone resorption. Although the evidence is growing that fracture risk is higher in diabetic patiens, there are still scientists who question the association between the two disorders.]